He tangata
He tangata
He tangata

If you should ask me
what is the most important
thing in this world?
I would say to you,

'Tis people
'Tis people
'Tis people

Welcome to Te Tahawai Marae. This marae, which is set in the grounds of Edgewater College, Pakuranga, Auckland, is a pan-tribal urban marae where people of all cultures may come to experience and learn about maori culture and customs. Visitors will enjoy a unique maori experience that is welcoming and supportive of them as they enter the maori world and develop their understanding of maori way of life (tikanga).

Formal occasions on this marae follow the kawa or protocols of Tainui in respect of tangi and powhiri. Ngai Tai is Mana Whenua of the land the marae occupies. The Wharenui “Te Wai O Paoa” is from the eponymous ancestor Paoa, of Ngati Paoa ki Hauraki.

The wharenui, Te Wai O Paoa, demonstrates the rich heritage of Maori arts and crafts, a feature of which is the outstanding collection of carvings. They were completed by a team of carvers led by the late Dr Paki Harrison, one of New Zealand's most prestigious carvers, the carvings demonstrate carving styles of iwi (maori tribes) throughout Aotearoa. Fine examples of tukutuku (woven panels) and kowhaiwhai (traditional maori patterns) complete the internal decorations.

Te Tahawai Marae Komiti gratefully acknowledges the support and sponsorship of the following organizations.