Media Release: Attribute to Shane Graham, Pouwhakahaere, te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua acknowledges the significance of today's poroporoāki (farewell ceremony) for Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu, hosted at Te Ukaipō, Wairau.

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rārua wishes to express our collective aroha, gratitude, and respect to all those who have served and led within Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu throughout its remarkable journey.

Today is both a time for reflection and a reaffirmation of the mana that Whānau Ora has built within Te Waipounamu. 

We acknowledge the unwavering dedication of champions who have carried the kaupapa forward – including our Wairau-based leaders, kaumātua, whānau, navigators, and community advocates.

Although today's poroporoāki closes a significant chapter, it also reminds us of the enduring resilience gifted to us by our tūpuna. 

It is upon these foundations that we will continue to uphold the vision of whānau rangatiratanga, wellbeing, and strength.