A Heartbeat for Community Connection and Kaupapa Māori
Nau mai, haere mai ki Whare Manaaki – a vibrant kaupapa Māori space in the heart of Māwhera (Greymouth), where everyone is welcomed, supported, and uplifted. At 141 Tainui Street, Whare Manaaki isn’t just a physical space; it is a home—a sanctuary where community connection, cultural growth, and personal empowerment come together in harmony.
Rooted in Māori values, Whare Manaaki was created with a deep commitment to nurturing the well-being of our community, grounded in the principles of manaakitanga (hospitality), whanaungatanga (family connection), and ako (learning). It is a place where individuals and families can embrace their heritage, celebrate their culture, and find support for their personal journeys.
A Space for Everyone
Whether you’re seeking to reconnect with your roots or simply looking for a supportive community, Whare Manaaki offers something for everyone. It is a space where the teachings of our ancestors are brought into the modern world, ensuring that the wisdom of the past continues to guide and inspire future generations. The range of programs at Whare Manaaki is designed to strengthen cultural ties, build relationships, and empower our whānau (family) in meaningful ways.
Tūpuna Parenting Programme – This program shares traditional Māori parenting practices, offering invaluable knowledge and guidance for modern-day whānau. By integrating ancient wisdom with contemporary approaches, we help nurture strong and healthy families.
Hāpori Play Group – A joyful gathering place for tamariki (children) and whānau, this group provides a safe and creative space where children can learn and grow, while parents build connections and share experiences.
Kai Katoa – Food has always been central to Māori culture. Kai Katoa brings people together around kai (food) to share meals, engage in kōrero (conversation), and connect with one another, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
Rongoā Māori – Embracing the healing traditions of Māori, this program offers natural remedies and teachings from our ancestors that promote health, balance, and well-being.
Te Reo Māori – Language is a vital part of cultural identity. This program offers a space for those wishing to learn or strengthen their knowledge of Te Reo Māori, ensuring that the language thrives for future generations.
Mana Wāhine – This program celebrates and empowers wāhine (women), providing a platform for women to come together, share their stories, and support each other in their personal growth and empowerment.
Kōanga Kai – Supporting food sovereignty and sustainability, this initiative encourages self-sufficiency and teaches the principles of growing and sharing food in alignment with Māori values.
A Space for Tamariki (Children)
At Whare Manaaki, tamariki are our treasure (taonga), and we believe that they are the future of our whānau and community. Our whare is always a place where tamariki are welcomed with open arms, their laughter and energy filling the space with vitality. We honor their potential and ensure that our programs are designed to foster their growth, both culturally and personally.
In addition to our community programs, Whare Manaaki also offers a special library of pukapuka Māori (Māori books) to borrow, as well as taonga pūoro (traditional Māori instruments) and taonga kākahu (ceremonial cloaks and adornments) that are available for significant occasions, such as graduations and birthdays.
A Place for Connection, Growth, and Learning
Our kaupapa (mission) is simple: we aim to create a space that feels truly Māori, grounded in tikanga (customs) and manaaki (hospitality), where whānau can come together in a spirit of unity and shared learning. We are committed to fostering a journey of growth in mātauranga (knowledge), te ao Māori (the Māori world), te reo Māori (the Māori language), and tikanga Māori (Māori customs), empowering our community to embrace and celebrate these essential aspects of our culture.
With over 1,400 whānau visiting each year, and 100% positive feedback from those who have joined us, Whare Manaaki is a wellspring of support and inspiration. Whether you’re here for a warm kapu tī (cup of tea) and kōrero (conversation), or you’re participating in one of our many programs, you’ll find a place where you belong—a place where everyone is treated with manaakitanga and respect.
Join Our Whānau
At Whare Manaaki, we believe that when we come together as whānau, we can achieve greatness.
We invite you to join us, connect with our kaupapa, and become a part of our thriving community. Our doors are always open, and we look forward to welcoming you with open arms and open hearts.
Let’s embrace the journey of shared learning and growth, and together, celebrate the rich heritage and culture of Te Ao Māori.
Whare Manaaki - Kia hora te marino, kia whakapapa pounamu te moana, kia tere te karohirohi i muri i te hihiri o te ata. (May peace be widespread, may the sea glisten as greenstone, and may the shimmer of light shine after the dawn.)
Eli Maiava Waitaha, Kāti Mamoe, Poutini Kāi TahuKaiwhakahaere, Director and Founder