18/06/2026
E hara ēnei taonga mōku ake, engari, mō te rau tangata.
What I know is not for me to keep, but to share with others.
(Papa Te Kai Makiha)
This beautiful whakatauākī came to mind today as Dr Hinemoa Elder shared the journey behind her incredible book, "ARA – A Māori Guidebook of the Mind" .
I look forward to reading the many gems she has gathered and generously shared. During her presentation, she spoke about the privilege of being part of a road trip in 2008 that led to an impromptu wānanga throughout Hokianga and Whirinaki, visiting kaumātua and urupā. During that journey, a number of key knowledge holders shared the names of the various rua created and curated by Hinengaro, along with the order of those rua and the kaupapa associated with each one. Hinemoa carefully recorded and preserved this knowledge.
She shared her reflections on the responsibility that comes with being entrusted with such precious taonga. How do we honour and protect this knowledge while ensuring it is shared in ways that benefit others? Firstly, for our own people, to support healing, understanding, and the search for answers. But also for the wider world, because Indigenous mātauranga offers wisdom and guidance that is deeply needed right now.
This book is more than a collection of knowledge; it is a practical resource designed to help guide us through life's many challenges, while reconnecting us to the wisdom of our ancestors.
