Reducing the Length of My Pepeha: Essentials and Adaptations
Pepeha is a powerful way to introduce oneself, connecting people to their whenua, whakapapa, and relationships. However, in some situations—such as large gatherings where many will share their pepeha—it is practical to shorten it while still maintaining its essence. This blog post explores how to effectively condense both a pepeha Māori and a pepeha urutau, ensuring that key elements remain while adapting to time constraints.
Understanding the Purpose of a Shortened Pepeha
A pepeha serves multiple purposes: it establishes identity, acknowledges relationships, and situates individuals within a broader community. When many people are presenting their pepeha, brevity can be a form of respect, allowing time for everyone to speak while still sharing meaningful aspects of identity.
Essentials of a Pepeha Māori
A pepeha Māori traditionally follows a structured format that includes ancestral landmarks and affiliations.
When shortening a pepeha Māori, consider these key elements:
Maunga and Awa/Moana – These elements anchor one’s identity to the land and waters.
Iwi or Hapū – This remains essential as it signifies one’s broader kinship group.
Wāhi (Place of Origin) – Where your people are from.
Name – Who you are.
Example of a Shortened Pepeha Māori:
(A shortened Māori pepeha)
Ko [Maunga] te maunga, ([Mountain] is my mountain)
Ko [Awa/Moana] te awa/moana, (The [river/sea] is my river/sea)
Ko [Iwi/Hapū] ahau, (I am of the [tribe/subtribe])
Ko [Wāhi] tōku kāinga, ([Place] is my home)
Ko [Ingoa] ahau. (My name is [Name].)
This version maintains key connections while remaining succinct.
Essentials of a Pepeha Urutau
A pepeha urutau is an adapted pepeha for those(tāngata Tiriti) who do not whakapapa to the land in the same way as tangata whenua.
When shortening a pepeha urutau, focus on:
Example of a Shortened Pepeha Urutau:
(A shortened adapted pepeha)
Ko [Country/Region] tōku whenua tupu, (My homeland is [Country/Region])
Ko [Current Place] tōku kāinga ināianei, (My home now is [Current Place])
Ko [Ingoa] ahau, (My name is [Name].)
Ko au te [Role] o te rōpu/whānau. (I am the [Role] of the group/family.)
This version ensures you acknowledge your place of origin while respectfully recognising your presence in Aotearoa.
When and Why to Shorten Your Pepeha
Shortening a pepeha is appropriate when:
· There are many speakers and time is limited.
· The audience is unfamiliar with pepeha, and a concise version aids understanding.
· The context is informal or the focus is on other kaupapa.
Conclusion
A shortened pepeha can still be meaningful and impactful. By identifying the essential elements and adapting them to the context, you can honour your identity and relationships while being mindful of others. Whether presenting a pepeha Māori or a pepeha urutau, the key is to retain its heart—connecting yourself to people, places, and purpose in a way that respects both tradition and the occasion.
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