Returning home to whenua as a process of reclaiming belonging, identity, and everyday kaitiakitanga

Natasha Koia (Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga a Mate) is a kaitiaki and systems thinker living on ancestral whenua in Makarika, Tairāwhiti. Opening the series, her kōrero is shaped by her grandparents’ reo and values. Tarsh bridges lived practice and deep insight, reminding us that belonging is inherited and that there is space for everyone to return: home has always been waiting, and there is enough space for everybody.

No runga, no raro kare i whakapapatia

We are all connected, there is no separation

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Disclaimer

Te Karanga o Te Whenua is led by researchers based at the Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research Group, now part of the Bioeconomy Science Institute – Maiangi Taiao.

The stories shared in Te Karanga o Te Whenua are personal accounts that were recorded with permission and are presented to reflect the lived experiences, perspectives, and voices of the research partners. These narratives are shared in good faith to inform, reflect, and inspire listeners, and are not intended for advisory purposes. The views expressed are those of the individuals featured and do not necessarily represent the views of the funders or hosting organisations.