Our group Ngā Ara o Tapora, teaches workshops to weave with harakeke, and a variety of other art forms.
Our main kaupapa is to teach caregivers how to make wahakura (safe sleeping spaces) made out of harakeke, but we are not limited to the making of wahakura, our group also holds workshops to learn to make kete, potae or other harakeke products. We provide opportunities for the community, of all ages, to learn in a safe and tikanga based matauranga Māori environment.
Groups or individuals learn as they weave about safe sleeping messages, we encourage other family members to help with the weaving and they in turn share what they learnt with others as well.
We can also refer whanau to organisations for further support e.g., quit smoking programmes, breastfeeding support etc.
Our group has been together since 2017 and started at the Fordlands community centre, umbrelled by Plunket. Our group ran workshops at the Rotorua public library, community centres and we were also involved with the wananga at the LHDB funded, Hapu Mama programme, where we taught caregivers to weave their own wahakura. This was held at Apumoana marae, for 3 years.
At present, our group have contracts to continue weaving and continue to seek funding to retain our current venue and hold wananga.
Mirimiri (massage)
Traditional soft tissue massage for increased blood flow to strained muscles.
Hot stone massage
Using basalt stones heated with the minera; enriched geothermal waters of Parekohuru for a deeper, more relaxing massage.
How do the sessions work?
Your kaimahi (worker) Rangi, will work with you on how the sessions will work best for you. There is an option of home appointments and appointments here at our rooms between 11 and 3pm and are open till 7pm on Thursdays during summer.
How much will this cost me?
Mirimiri (massage) is available for 30 minutes ($30) or 60 minutes ($50). Hot stone massage is available for 30 minutes ($50) or 60 minutes ($80).
Conditions apply. Please phone or email Rangi Hudson for more information.
