Last Saturday, "Mātauranga Māori and its Effective Use in Technology" was the kaupapa for a one day PLD event held at Kaiapoi High School thanks to a collaboration between TENZ & PPTA Te Wehengarua, Waitaha Canterbury.
The day opened with mihi whakatau from Ngāi Tūāhuriri, the local Ngāi Tahu hapū, with addresses from Daniel Hāpuku (PPTA Te Wehengarua Te Huarahi), Thomas Newton (PPTA Te Wehengarua Regional Chairperson), Jason Reid (Kaiapoi High School Tumuaki), Te Aomihia Taua-Glassie (PPTA Te Wehengarua Māori Vice President), and Hamish Johnston (TENZ / PPTA Te Wehengarua Regional Secretary).
The kaupapa for the day was centred around embracing Mātauranga Māori and showing its potential in the field of technology. Attendees were treated to a range of workshops and exceptional speakers including: Lynne Harata Te-Aika, Nicole Solomon, Hamuera Kahi, Patty Robinson, Daniel Hāpuku, Catherine Frost, and Pip Osborne.
“I found the whole day inspirational.” - Andrea
“A welcoming, rich, and insightful kaupapa with interesting speakers, activities, experiences to help teachers on their journey. An absolute delight, inspiration and something I will rave about to others” - Kate
Keynote speaker Lynne Harata Te Aika’s captivating presentation explored how cultural narratives shape design. She showcased the integration of Māori art and civic development in Ōtautahi Christchurch. Residents of the city were recommended to take part in the walking tour led by the Matapopore Trust. The Trust’s influence can be seen throughout the central city with diverse and thought provoking design projects that continue to build upon, and recognise, the histories of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
“Fantastic workshops , wish it could be a 2-3 day PD!” - Sally
“I was learning weaving, but we were actually weaving personal connections too.” - Rachel
A standout takeaway from this event was the profound impact of narratives on design. These narratives, rooted in the lived experiences of individuals, groups, and wider communities serve as authentic contexts that shape the technological landscape.
