What is a Pepeha? Ways to Show Connection.
Tēnā tātou Ngāti Meta Whenua whānui.
Introduction
A pepeha is a way of introducing oneself in Māori culture, grounding the individual in their ancestral and geographical background. It is a structured form of introduction that acknowledges the individual's connection to their whānau (family), hapū (sub-tribe), iwi (tribe), maunga (mountain), and awa (river). A pepeha is more than just an introduction; it is a declaration of one’s identity and heritage, reflecting the interconnectedness and importance of relationships within Māori worldview.
When a person shares their pepeha, they are expressing their identity by linking themselves to their ancestors and the land, emphasising the Māori belief in the interconnectedness of all living things and the natural world. This practice is deeply rooted in the values of whanaungatanga (relationships) and whakapapa (genealogy), highlighting the significance of knowing who you are and where you come from.
The structure of a pepeha typically includes the following components:
Maunga (Mountain): The mountain associated with the individual’s iwi or hapū.
Awa (River): The river associated with the individual’s iwi or hapū.
Waka (Canoe): The ancestral canoe that the individual’s ancestors arrived in.
Iwi (Tribe): The tribe to which the individual belongs.
Hapū (Sub-tribe): The sub-tribe to which the individual belongs.
Whānau (Family): The family to which the individual belongs.
Creating and sharing a pepeha is a way for individuals to locate themselves within the larger context of their whānau, hapū, and iwi, fostering a sense of belonging and continuity. It is a practice that is still very much alive and is encouraged as a means of preserving and promoting Māori culture, heritage, and values. Whether in formal settings or informal gatherings, presenting one’s pepeha is a meaningful way to connect with others and honor one’s ancestors and heritage.
Craft your pepeha.
Heres a simple structure for crafting your own pepeha
Ko __________________________Te Maunga
Ko __________________________Te Awa/Roto (River/Lake)
Ko __________________________Te Waka
Ko __________________________Te Iwi
Ko __________________________Te Hapū
Ko __________________________Te Marae
Ko __________________________Te Kura
Ko __________________________Tōku Ingoa
We hope this guide has enriched your understanding, enabling you to partake in this marae spaces with respect and appreciation. May your experience at the Metawhenua be enlightening and memorable, fostering a deeper appreciation and connection to Māori culture and traditions.
If you recognise the transformative power of this technology and wish to explore further, we warmly invite you to join the Ngāti Meta Whenua whānau and stay connected with us.
Noho ora mai,
Metawhenua.
