Don’t let the World change who you are! Be your own shooting star!

My Beautiful Great GrandMother Heni Te Kāuru

To understand Māori culture, one must first grasp the concept of whakapapa, which is the genealogy or line of descent from one’s ancestors. Whakapapa is central to Māori identity and plays a vital role in shaping the society we live in. It is embedded in our language, beliefs, values, and everyday conversations, and forms the basis for how we connect with Ngā Atua (the Gods) and each other.

Whakapapa guides our personal journey, helping us connect ideas, principles, and experiences in meaningful ways. Reconnecting with your whakapapa can be incredibly empowering and enriching, especially in a world full of distractions. It serves as a grounding tool, offering clarity about who we are and helping us navigate life with confidence. With the wisdom and knowledge of our ancestry, we are equipped to move forward without fear.

Whakapapa is one of our most precious taonga (treasures), shaping not only our own lives but also the lives of our whānau, friends, and communities. By embracing and understanding our whakapapa, we elevate our self-respect, raise our standards, and unlock our full potential. It strengthens our perspective, allowing us to grow and navigate life more fully.

When we are aligned with our whakapapa, we gain the knowledge, wisdom, and experience to make the best choices for ourselves, becoming the "master" of our own lives. However, when we allow the weight of the world to overwhelm us, we risk becoming bitter and frustrated, affecting others around us. By focusing on ourselves intimately, we transform challenges into opportunities for growth, using whakapapa as an anchor in all we do.

In times of change or hardship, whakapapa reminds us of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going. It allows us to let go of what no longer serves us and move forward into the light of our true potential.

Be your own shooting star.