There have been two films (that reached the UK) that have given us a little insight into Maori culture in the last 20 years, “Once were warriors” and “Whale rider”. So it was fascinating to see the small rural community where whale rider was filmed. Check out some pictures of the area where it was filmed ….. Read More
There have been some significant changes for the Maori people since I was here 12 years ago. It was only 50 years ago that they were unable to speak their own language in schools without being reprimanded. Now they have their own Te Reo (Maori language TV channel), the use of their language is on the rise and there are Maori members of government. Sadly, many of New Zealand churches still hang on to imported styles of music (Australia, States, etc), unaware, it seems, of the treasures it has within its own borders. A few contemporary musicians and artists are mixing the languages and bringing traditional and modern expressions together. Check out CD’s by Whirimako Black (of 1 Giant Leap fame), Fat Freddys Drop, Te Waka, The Little Bushmen and the video above of Moana and the Tribe.
Want to learn more about the music of the Maori click here
Many people groups have a long history of oral tradition, learning and understanding is passed down through the generations. In New Zealand, the marae (a gathering place) has been the focal point for Maoridom for many centuries. Not just a place for people to meet but a family home to the generations that have gone before.
“We, the Maori, need our marae so that we may pray to God; rise tall in oratory; weep for our dead; house our guests; have our meetings, feasts, weddings and reunions; and sing and dance.” Hiwi and Pat Tauroa.
Gisborne, on the East coast of New Zealand; you may remember it was the world’s focus for the beginning of the new millennium, 2000. What you may not know …. the sunrise captured by TV crews and beamed all around the world was recorded the day before!!! On the big day, it was cloudy, broadcasting at its best or worst … your choice?
We have travelled south to Te Puke and staying in a small community with David and Mary Charrington (yes, related to the brewers in England). They are helping with the pastoral care of 400 Nievans. (people born of Vanuatu). This Pacific archipelago has around 86 separate islands with 104 different languages. The New Zealand government have in the last couple of years, set up a program to help the poorest families, by allowing them a 6 month work placement in Kiwi fruit orchards. (Incidentally there is one called Lindisfarne Orchard!) Read More
One of the highlights of the hui was this collection of Maori art telling the sad story of Nia Glassie. The artist used cultural symbolism and glass in her piece about this young 3 year old child who was battered and killed. The horrific abuse astounded New Zealand, bringing it to its knees. One of the things that was so powerful was the significance of glass, causing you to see your own image reflected in the art composition. Read More
How bizarre to come to the other side of the world and yet find ourselves in familiar surroundings. We are staying at a community called Berakah (valley of blessing) retreat near Warkworth on the North Island. Six generations of our host’s family have been on this land since 1874. The original settlers in this county were from Northumberland, UK, and as we travel around we have found many street names taken from places in North Northumberland. We have had an amazing couple of days hearing stories about this land and sharing stories from our Celtic heritage.
Many Western cultures are very word based and are very suspicious of silence. Yet for the Japanese, in some cases, less talk says more as the pauses and silence communicate much. Some would say that they are even suspicious of words as they are more concerned with actions.
In New Zealand, in certain circumstances the Maori people will meet for discussions on a marae (a community gathering place) in a wharenui (meeting house). There, a speaker will stand and deliver his talk and then sit down and there will be silence, to allow others to contemplate his words before the next speaker.
I once heard a wise man talk about the many words used in religion, he said “Church is a little bit like a swimming pool – all the noise comes from the shallow end.”
When I lived in London, I spent many a weekend volunteering with this wonderful group of people who try to bring a moments encouragement to those that have ended up living on the streets of our capital city. www.aslan.org.uk
Thanks Beth for sending me this video evidence that shows old rockers never die!!
People photos …. Instrument pictures …. Donate to this project …. Village pictures …. Hear about the drum
In 2005, Martin and Rebekah Neil were recording in a rural community in Tanzania. Now, “Sing to the Well” brings the people’s story home to you. The CD & extra DVD present a musical glimpse of the sounds, songs and rhythms of a beautiful people, the Wagogo. The harsh realities of their lives do not stifle them; they retain their creative passion to sing, dance and give thanks to God.
Be transported into the heart of the Wagogo community and experience for yourself the atmosphere and spirit of hope.
Best of all, as you enjoy the music and the story, you will be directly supporting the construction of wells in the village and a medical unit, as all monies go back to the village.
100% of sales go straight to projects in Mnase village when you buy the Sing to the Well CD and DVD Read More
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