Nga Pou

Ngā Pou – Our Guiding Pillars

Ngā Pou are the key pillars that guide and support the kaupapa of our mahi. Each Pou represents an important area of focus for the wellbeing and development of Ngāti Kuri whānau and our wider community. These include Hauora (Health), Mātauranga (Education), Whanaungatanga (Relationships), Taiao (Environment), Whai Rawa (Economic Development), and Te Reo me ngā Tikanga (Language and Culture). Together, Ngā Pou work in harmony to uphold the mana and aspirations of our people across our takiwā, strengthening identity, connection, and resilience now and for future generations.

Nga Kaitiaki 

He waka eke noa 

We are all in this together

Ngā Kaitiaki Pou represents the three foundational pillars that guide and strengthen our community:

Kaumātua – Our Elders

Our kaumātua are the keepers of wisdom, knowledge, and cultural heritage. They provide guidance, leadership, and support, ensuring that the values and traditions of our people are upheld and passed on to future generations.

Pakeke – Parents and Teachers

Our pakeke are the nurturers, educators, and role models who support the growth and development of our whānau. Through teaching, mentoring, and caring, they create strong foundations for learning, wellbeing, and success.

 Rangatahi/Tai Tamariki – Our Future

Our rangatahi and tamariki are the future leaders, innovators, and guardians of tomorrow. As learners and absorbers of knowledge, they carry forward the aspirations, culture, and dreams of our communities.

 Ngā Kaitiaki Pou, we bring these three pillars together to create a strong, connected, and thriving community. By honouring the wisdom of our elders, empowering our adults, and nurturing our young people, we build pathways that strengthen whānau, celebrate identity, and inspire future generations.

Health/Wellness 

The Health & Wellness Pou (Hauora Pou) is founded on four interconnected pillars that strengthen the wellbeing, resilience, and future of our communities: Civil Defence, Kaumātua, Rangatahi, and Holistic Health & Wellness. Together these pou support the physical, mental, spiritual, and social wellbeing of our people

"He oranga ngākau, he pikinga waiora."


A positive feeling in your heart will enhance your sense of wellbeing

Health & Wellness Pou (Hauora Pou)

Promoting holistic wellbeing through the balance of hinengaro (mind), tinana (body), wairua (spirit), and whānau (family). We support healthy lifestyles, resilience, connection, and community wellbeing so individuals and whānau can thrive.

Click on the link below for further information

http://www.tetaiomarokura.org/ 

Civil Defence Pou

Building resilient communities through preparedness, education, and support. We work alongside whānau and community partners to ensure people are equipped to respond, recover, and stay connected during times of emergency and uncertainty.

Kaumātua Pou

Honouring and supporting our kaumātua as the keepers of wisdom, culture, and mātauranga. We value their leadership, guidance, and experience, ensuring their knowledge continues to strengthen future generations.

Rangatahi Pou

Empowering rangatahi to grow, learn, and lead with confidence. Through mentorship, education, cultural connection, and opportunities for development, we nurture the leaders and changemakers of tomorrow.

Taiao/Environmental

The Taiao Pou is dedicated to protecting and enhancing our natural environment through kaitiakitanga, education, conservation, and community action. Guided by mana whenua, tangata tiaki, environmental advocates, and marine guardians, we work together to ensure the health and sustainability of our whenua, wai, and moana for future generations. 🌿🌊

"Ko au te taiao, ko te taiao ko au."

I am the environment, and the environment is me.

 

Environment Pou

Promoting environmental stewardship through sustainable practices, conservation, restoration, and education. We encourage communities to protect and enhance the natural resources that sustain us all.

Mana Whenua / Hiku Waikura Pou

Recognising the vital role of mana whenua as guardians of ancestral lands, waterways, and cultural knowledge. We uphold tikanga, mātauranga Māori, and the deep connections between people and place.

Tangata Tiaki Pou

Supporting and developing kaitiaki within our communities who actively care for the land, waterways, and natural environment. Through leadership and action, they help preserve the wellbeing of our taiao for generations to come.

🌊 Click below for Tangata Tiaki/Kaitiaki contact information and permit enquiries.

Tikanga/Cultural

The Tikanga/Cultural Pou upholds the values, traditions, and identity that connect our people to their whakapapa, whenua, and communities. Through cultural leadership, design, advisory services, papakāinga development, and kaitiakitanga, we strengthen the foundations that preserve our heritage and guide future generations.

"Toitū te tikanga, toitū te iwi."

When our customs and values endure, our people endure.

Boundary Pou

Establishing and respecting cultural, environmental, and community boundaries that protect our values, sacred spaces, and way of life. Through clear understanding and mutual respect, we strengthen relationships and safeguard what is important for future generations, our Takiwa

Kaitiaki / Whenua / Tribal Pou

Honouring the role of kaitiaki and the enduring connection between people, whenua, hapū, and iwi. We support the protection of cultural heritage, natural resources, and mātauranga Māori while strengthening tribal identity and guardianship responsibilities.

Cultural Design Pou

Celebrating our stories, symbols, language, and traditions through creative and culturally authentic design. We use art, innovation, and cultural expression to preserve identity, inspire pride, and connect present and future generations to their heritage.

Papakāinga Housing Pou

Supporting whānau-centred housing solutions that strengthen connections to whenua, whakapapa, and community. Papakāinga development promotes wellbeing, cultural identity, and sustainable living for current and future generations.

 

Matauranga/Education

The Mātauranga Pou strengthens our communities through education, leadership, governance, and the sharing of knowledge. Guided by lifelong learning and informed decision-making, this pou supports the development of capable leaders, empowered learners, and strong representatives who help shape a prosperous future for all.

"Ko te manu e kai ana i te mātauranga, nōna te ao."

The bird that partakes of knowledge owns the world

Education Pou

Promoting lifelong learning and educational achievement for tamariki, rangatahi, and whānau. We support pathways that build knowledge, skills, confidence, and opportunities for personal and collective success.

Board of Trustees

Providing governance, stewardship, and strategic leadership to ensure strong, accountable, and sustainable decision-making. Board Trustees safeguard the vision, values, and future aspirations of the organisation and community.

Rūnanga Representatives 

Representing the voices, aspirations, and interests of whānau, hapū, and iwi within decision-making processes. Rūnanga Representatives strengthen communication, collaboration, and cultural leadership while ensuring community perspectives are heard and respected.

Ngahau/Celebration

The Ngāhau Pou strengthens the heart of our community by bringing people together through celebration, connection, and whānau engagement. Through events and whānau-focused initiatives, we foster belonging, strengthen relationships, and create opportunities for our people to connect, celebrate, and thrive together.

"Ka hono tātou ngākau, ka puāwai tō tātou hapori."


When our hearts are connected, our community flourishes.

Events Pou

Bringing our communities together through cultural, social, educational, and celebratory events that foster connection, participation, and belonging. Through shared experiences, we strengthen relationships, celebrate achievements, and create lasting memories that unite our people.


Ngāti Kuri Whānau 

Supporting the wellbeing, aspirations, and success of Ngāti Kuri whānau through connection, aroha, and collective strength. We honour whakapapa, nurture cultural identity, and create opportunities for whānau to thrive while preserving the values and traditions that connect us to our tūpuna and future generations.