He Toi Ora- Professional Learning Development

He Toi Ora Professional Learning Development Programme

The He Toi Ora Professional Learning Development programme is a four hour interactive experience designed for educational leaders, non government organisations, public sector groups, tertiary institutions, health sector organisations, and Iwi organisations. The programme provides an opportunity to engage with Mana Whenua narratives and develop a deeper understanding of the history and experiences of Waikato Iwi and the Kīngitanga.

The programme explores the historical injustices connected to the Rangiriri invasion by military forces, considered one of the bloodiest battles during the Crown invasion of Waikato. Participants learn how these historical events contributed to intergenerational trauma and continue to influence communities today. The programme naturally aligns with the New Zealand History Curriculum and uses interactive activities tailored to different learning styles.

Participants will take part in waananga covering the origins of the King Movement, the intentions behind the Crown invasion, and the effects of intergenerational trauma. The experience also provides the opportunity to hear directly from Mana Whenua and visit important historic locations. These include Te Maataarae ki Rangiriri, the old pā site and military redoubt, the remnants of the original Rangiriri Pā earthworks, and the world’s first Māori replica earthwork trenches built to their original scale.

The programme also explores local narratives surrounding the atrocities of the Waikato invasion and the cultural stories behind the carved pou and tomokanga created by Kīngitanga Master Carvers. Participants should arrive 15 minutes before the Mihi Whakatau welcoming ceremony and allow an additional 10 minutes for merchandise purchases or photographs. As the experience takes place outdoors, guests should dress appropriately, stay hydrated, wear comfortable enclosed shoes, and use sun protection. Flash photography and video recording restrictions apply, and wheelchair accessibility in the trenches is limited.