Introduction
Pepeha urutau are a beautiful way to introduce the depth and richness of your own background. They highlight important aspects of your own people and experiences. Below are some key ideas around which you can create sentences in English and then Te Reo Māori to show your own identity and connections.
Understanding Pepeha Urutau:
A pepeha urutau is not only a traditional introduction that establishes your identity and connections to your whakapapa (ancestry) and whenua (land), but it is also composed with a rhythmic and lyrical quality. The term urutau emphasises the adapted nature of the pepeha for tāngata Tiriti. Thus as a respectful adaptation it can have an almost musical, poetic nature in this form, setting it apart from a standard pepeha Māori.
Here are some general guidelines for creating your personal pepeha urutau:
• Ancestral Lands:
Begin by acknowledging the whenua of your tūpuna (ancestors). For example: Ko [Place] te whenua o ōku nei tūpuna. This establishes your deep-rooted connection to the land of your ancestors. This can be phrased in terms of your whakapapa also. For example: Ko [Ancestry] te whakapaparanga mai o ōku nei tūpuna.
• Family Connections:
Include your whānau by mentioning your parents and other key ancestral figures. For instance: Ko ōku mātua i whānau mai i [Place]. This highlights the continuity of your lineage and the cultural values passed down.
• Local Identity:
Acknowledge the local area or city where you were born or have a strong connection, such as: Ko [Place] wāhi i whānau mai ai au. This situates you within the community of your local region.
• Cultural Practices:
Include references to important cultural experiences—such as participating in kapa haka or learning te reo Māori—to honour your journey with Māori language and customs. For example: Ko [Māori Experience] te ara i whakakotahi ai au me taku hoa Māori. (With my Māori friend.)
• Values and Guiding Principles:
Reference guiding principles like Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which shape your worldview and actions. For example: Ko Te Tiriti o Waitangi tōku ture, he tauira mō te tika me te kotahitanga. (The Tiriti o Waitangi is my guide for what is right and for partnership.)
• Acknowledgement of Manawhenua:
Recognise the mana whenua—the traditional custodians of the land. For example: Ko te mana whenua o [Iwi Name] tōku whakamoemiti, he whakaute ki ngā tipuna. Make sure to ask: What is the name of the iwi that are manawhenua in your area? and insert that name, thereby honouring the indigenous guardianship of the land.
• Educational Background and Current Endeavors:
Before concluding with your personal identity, share a brief line about your educational journey and your current role—whether that’s work or tertiary study. For example: Ko [School/University Name] te kura i ako ai au, ā, ināianei, ko te [work/study field] tōku mahi/ako. This recognises your ongoing learning and contribution to your community.
• Current Community Connection:
Include a line that reflects where you live now, showing the community you are currently connected to. For example: Ko [Place/Community Name] te kāinga/wāhi e noho ana au. This acknowledges your present-day ties to the local community and the support network that surrounds you.
• Personal Identity:
Conclude with your own name to affirm your identity within this tapestry of ancestry and community. For example: Ko Hera tōku ingoa Māori; ko Sarah tōku ingoa Pākehā.
By following these guidelines, you can create a pepeha urutau that is both structurally sound and rich in cultural significance, honouring your personal journey, your ancestral ties, and the traditions of tikanga Māori.
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