Tārake News Bulletins

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rāhoroi, te tekau mā rua o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In international. Indigenous Artists Challenge Perspectives Through Large-Scale Sculpture and New Music Tour. Cahuilla artist Gerald Clarke debuts a provocative 16-foot sculpture in Portland while JUNO winner Derek Miller launches a Canadian tour to support his new album, 'Outta My Head.'. Portland, Oregon — Cahuilla artist and educator Gerald Clarke is sparking dialogue around the depth of land acknowledgements with his latest exhibition, “Between the Lines,” currently on display at the Center for Native Arts + Cultures. As reported by ICT, the show features a massive 16-foot “rubber stamp” sculpture that contrasts the words “Unceded” and “Sorry” to challenge what Clarke describes as performative gestures by institutions. Clarke, a tribal leader known for using material innovation to address historical injustices, says the form of a rubber stamp was chosen to convey how the word “unceded” can lack emotional weight when used as a routine policy. Story 2. In international. Indigenous mothers reach settlement with NSW Police over bail check trespass case. Two Indigenous mothers have successfully settled a trespass case against New South Wales police following hundreds of unauthorized late-night bail checks on their children.. Two Indigenous mothers have settled a trespass case against the New South Wales police following a long-running legal battle over invasive bail checks at their homes. The settlement, announced on Friday 11 September 2026, concludes a legal challenge initiated in April 2024 after officers repeatedly entered private residences to check on children, often in the early hours of the morning. According to reporting by The Guardian, the case centered on the experiences of two women, identified by the pseudonyms Megan and Joanne. Megan, a single mother in regional NSW, reported that police attended her home more than 150 times over a 20-month period to conduct checks on her sons, who were aged 11 and 13 at the time. This story comes to us from the Guardian. Story 3. In community. Māori Lead the Way in Healthy Eating as Fruit and Vegetable Consumption Rises Nationally. New research from NielsenIQ shows 60 percent of Māori are meeting daily fruit and vegetable targets, significantly outperforming the national average in a positive shift for hauora.. New research has revealed a significant boost in healthy eating habits across Aotearoa, with Māori leading the nation in fresh produce consumption. According to the 2026 5+ A Day Awareness and Consumption Report released on 11 September 2026, 60 percent of Māori surveyed are eating five or more servings of fruit and vegetables daily. This figure sits notably higher than the national average of 45 percent, highlighting a major success in hauora Māori and the adoption of healthy kai practices within whānau. The report, conducted by NielsenIQ, indicates a general upward trend in nutrition across the country. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 4. In environment. Kākāpō Emerges as Early Frontrunner in Te Manu Rongonui o te Tau 2026. The kākāpō has taken an early lead in the 2026 Bird of the Year competition, heading a field of 74 native manu in a race that highlights New Zealand’s conservation efforts and Māori kaitiakitanga.. Aotearoa’s most spirited conservation campaign is officially underway, with the kākāpō taking a commanding lead in the first week of Te Manu Rongonui o te Tau | Bird of the Year 2026. According to reporting from Waatea News on Friday, 11 September 2026, the flightless nocturnal parrot currently sits at the top of the leaderboard after voting opened at 9am on 4 September. The 2026 competition features 74 native birds divided into six themed parties. While the kākāpō represents the Floor Birds party, it faces stiff competition from the karure black robin of the Shy Birds party, which is currently holding second place. Other notable contenders in the top five include the kārearea (New Zealand falcon), the kea, and the takahē. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 5. In community. New Research Highlights Potential Benefits of Early Hearing Health Support for Whānau. Advocates are calling for a proactive approach to hearing health as new research reveals untreated hearing loss costs Aotearoa over $1 billion annually, impacting whānau wellbeing and workplace productivity.. New research released on Friday, 11 September 2026, has highlighted a significant opportunity for Aotearoa to improve health and economic outcomes by addressing untreated hearing loss. According to findings reported by Waatea News, the issue is currently costing the country more than $1 billion every year due to lost workplace productivity, poorer health outcomes, and increased social isolation. New Zealand Hearing Industry Association CEO Barney Irvine stated that hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders are living with untreated hearing loss. He noted that the consequences extend well beyond communication struggles, often affecting relationships, employment, and the ability to participate in community activities. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 6. In leadership. Waititi Urges Māori Political Mobilisation Ahead of 2026 General Election. Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi is calling for increased Māori voter participation to protect Indigenous rights and ensure effective government service delivery.. Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi has issued a call for whānau Māori to engage actively in the upcoming 2026 General Election. In a statement reported by Waatea News on 11 September 2026, Waititi emphasised that enrolling and voting are essential tools for Māori to protect their rights, institutions, and overall wellbeing. He noted that the election, scheduled for 7 November, represents a critical moment for the future of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the Waitangi Tribunal. Waititi’s message centers on the importance of Māori representation in responding to proposed policy changes. This story comes to us from Waatea News. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rāmere, te tekau mā tahi o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In international. Fort Peck Tribes Welcome Home Three Ancestors After 135 Years. The Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes held a powerful repatriation ceremony on Tuesday to welcome home the remains of three children who died at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School over a century ago.. FORT PECK, MONTANA — The Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes gathered on Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2026, to welcome home three children who had been buried at the Carlisle Indian Industrial School cemetery for more than 135 years. The repatriation of Christine Redstone, Richard Morgan, and Peter Howe marks a significant moment of healing and cultural responsibility for the Montana-based Indigenous community. According to ICT reporting, the three students were part of a group that arrived at the notorious boarding school in Pennsylvania on April 15, 1890, after a journey of 1,800 miles. All three succumbed to illness while at the school and were buried far from their homeland. Story 2. In sports. Auckland rangatahi build confidence and connection through inclusive Sports Camps at Camp Adair. Hundreds of young people across the Auckland region are participating in a month-long sports programme at The Y Camp Adair designed to remove financial and social barriers to physical activity.. Hundreds of young people across the wider Auckland region are swapping their screens for the outdoors this month as part of a series of inclusive sports camps. The programme, running from 31 August until 25 September, aims to make physical activity and outdoor experiences more accessible to students who might otherwise face barriers to participation. Hosted at The Y Camp Adair, the initiative is now in its fifth year and is delivered in partnership with principal partner Grassroots Trust. The camps are intentionally designed to focus on participation, teamwork, and belonging rather than elite athletic performance. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 3. In leadership. Ngāti Kahungunu horse trek to deliver 20,000-signature Treaty petition to Parliament. A large-scale horse trek across the lower North Island is set to deliver a Ngāti Kahungunu-led petition to Parliament, calling for the protection of Te Tiriti o Waitangi in legislation.. A Ngāti Kahungunu-led petition calling for the protection of Te Tiriti o Waitangi has gathered more than 20,000 signatures as iwi members prepare a massive horse trek to the steps of Parliament. According to reporting by RNZ on Thursday, 10 September 2026, the movement aims to halt government plans to amend references to Te Tiriti in current legislation. Ngāti Kahungunu chair Bayden Barber told RNZ that any legislative or constitutional shifts regarding the Treaty require genuine consultation with both Māori and the wider public. To deliver this message, riders will depart from Waimārama Marae on Friday morning. This story comes to us from RNZ. Story 4. In business. Māori Innovation and Technology Delegations Planned for Northland in 2027. The New Zealand Israel Innovation Hub has announced plans for three upcoming Māori Innovation and Technology Delegations in 2027, with a specific focus on supporting Northland Māori communities.. Plans are underway for a series of international exchanges aimed at boosting regional growth, with the New Zealand Israel Innovation Hub announcing three Māori Innovation and Technology Delegations scheduled for 2027. According to reporting by Te Ao Māori News on Thursday, 10 September 2026, the inaugural delegation in this series will specifically focus on Māori communities in Northland. The initiative follows a recent visit to Israel by a delegation of Māori leaders, which included Northland Regional Council chair Pita Tipene. That visit was described to prospective participants as a business and innovation focused mission. This story comes to us from Te Ao Māori News. Story 5. In community. Delamere Cup 2026: Mātaatua Primary Schools Prepare for Kapa Haka Showcase in Te Kaha. The prestigious Delamere Cup kapa haka competition for primary and intermediate schools in the Mātaatua region will be held on September 25 and 26 at Te Kura o Te Whānau-a-Apanui.. The Mātaatua region is preparing to celebrate the next generation of Māori performing arts as the Delamere Cup returns on 25 and 26 September. The kapa haka competition, which caters to primary and intermediate schools, is scheduled to take place at Te Kura o Te Whānau-a-Apanui in Te Kaha. Organisers have confirmed that 25 groups will take to the stage this year, reflecting the strong commitment to te ao haka within regional kura. The 2026 event marks a significant milestone for Te Kuratahi o Waiotahe, who will be making their debut appearance at the competition. The inclusion of new groups highlights the continued growth and reach of the event across the rohe. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 6. In international. Winston Peters highlights Whakapapa connections during Pacific Islands Forum diplomacy. Foreign Minister Winston Peters has returned from the Pacific Islands Forum, emphasizing Aotearoa New Zealand’s deep whakapapa and historical ties to its Pacific neighbors amidst shifting regional dynamics.. As reported by Waatea News on 10 September 2026, the New Zealand First leader used his latest round of Pacific diplomacy to reinforce the deep-seated connections that bind Aotearoa to the region, citing shared whakapapa, migration, trade, and generations of whānau relationships as the bedrock of these partnerships. Mr. Peters signaled that the Pacific is undergoing significant transformation due to climate change, development pressures, and increasing infrastructure needs. He emphasized that New Zealand’s engagement must be based on more than just strategic competition between major global powers. This story comes to us from Waatea News. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rāpare, te tekau o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In international. Woodland Heart Nonprofit Empowers Menominee Youth Through Traditional Dance and Regalia. A Menominee-led nonprofit is fostering cultural pride and identity among young boys through traditional woodland dance and hand-crafted regalia at major Indigenous gatherings.. SHAKOPEE, Minn. — In a vibrant display of cultural reclamation, young Menominee dancers took to the arena at the annual Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Wacipi in mid-August 2026. Among them was 13-year-old Niigani Bineshi Buckholtz, who joined over 1,300 registered dancers at one of Indian Country’s largest annual powwows. Buckholtz, adorned in handmade woodland regalia featuring hand-stitched applique aprons, is one of several teenagers participating in Woodland Heart, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting Menominee youth. Based in Neopit, Wisconsin, on the Menominee Reservation, Woodland Heart was established in December 2024 to support boys aged 11 to 14 who may be disengaged from school activities or sports. Story 2. In international. Coastal clean-up near Dongara protects Midwest cultural and environmental values. The Department of Biodiversity and Conservation has removed 620 kilograms of debris from a 10-kilometre stretch of coastline near Dongara to protect wildlife and cultural heritage.. A significant environmental and cultural preservation effort has taken place on the Midwest coastline of Western Australia, where authorities successfully cleared more than 600 kilograms of rubbish. On Wednesday, 9 September 2026, the Department of Biodiversity and Conservation (DBCA) confirmed that a four-day operation resulted in the removal of 620kg of debris from a 10-kilometre stretch of beach near Dongara. According to the DBCA’s Chelsea Attwood, the initiative is about more than just cleaning the sand; it is a vital step in mitigating long-term harm to the natural environment. This story comes to us from the ABC. Story 3. In business. Ngāti Rangi and Defence Force Seal Landmark Housing Agreement at Waiōuru. Ngāti Rangi and the New Zealand Defence Force have signed a commercial agreement to build 50 new homes at Waiōuru, marking a significant shift toward partnership and shared economic opportunity.. A significant new commercial agreement between Ngāti Rangi and the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) was signed on Wednesday, 9 September 2026, clearing the way for a 50-home housing development at Waiōuru Military Camp. The deal involves the sale of land and buildings to Ngāti Rangi, which will then lease the assets back to the NZDF under a long-term arrangement. Construction and development of the surrounding land is expected to be completed by mid-2028. Te Tōtarahoe o Paerangi Chair Tomairangi Mareikura described the agreement as a transformation of a relationship historically marked by sacrifice and grievance into one based on partnership. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 4. In sports. Aotearoa New Zealand to Host 2028 World Squash Championships. New Zealand has been named the host for the 2028 World Squash Championships, marking the largest squash event in the nation's history just months before the sport's Olympic debut.. Auckland is set to become the global hub for squash in February 2028 after New Zealand was selected to host the World Squash Championships. This landmark announcement, confirmed on 8 September 2026, marks the beginning of an unprecedented era for the sport in Aotearoa, as the tournament will take place just four months before squash makes its inaugural appearance at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. The championships will be staged at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in central Auckland. In a significant expansion for the sport, the event will run alongside the first-ever World Club Championships, a new initiative allowing club players to compete on the same global stage as professional athletes. This story comes to us from RNZ. Story 5. In community. Tāiki ē! Grassroots campaign mobilises Māori whānau for Election 2026 enrolment. ActionStation Director Kassie Hartendorp is leading a community-driven movement to ensure Māori and rangatahi are enrolled to vote before a new legislative deadline on 25 October.. A nationwide grassroots campaign titled ‘Together for the Vote’ has launched to mobilise Māori communities and rangatahi across Aotearoa ahead of the upcoming general election. Reported by Waatea News on 9 September 2026, the community-led initiative is racing to ensure whānau are enrolled before a new legal deadline that could catch many voters off guard. The urgency stems from the Electoral Amendment Act 2025, which dictates that enrolment now closes 13 days before election day. Unlike the last two elections, eligible voters will no longer be able to enrol at the polling booth during the voting period. For the 2026 election, anyone wishing to cast a ballot on 7 November must be enrolled by midnight on 25 October. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 6. In community. Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 2026: A National Invitation to Strengthen Aotearoa’s Unique Language. Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori is calling on all New Zealanders to celebrate and normalise te reo Māori in everyday life as the 2026 Māori Language Week approaches.. As Te Wiki o te Reo Māori 2026 approaches, Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori (the Māori Language Commission) is urging the nation to embrace the language as a unique cornerstone of New Zealand identity. Chief Executive Ngāhiwi Apanui-Barr stated that the week provides a vital opportunity to recognise the progress of te reo Māori while encouraging citizens to integrate the language into their daily routines. According to Waatea News, the commission emphasizes that revitalisation occurs not just in classrooms, but through visibility in workplaces, sports, and at home. This year’s celebrations build on a legacy of activism that began with the Māori language petition presented to Parliament on 14 September 1972. This story comes to us from Waatea News. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rāapa, te iwa o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In leadership. Ngāti Kahungunu Riders to Lead Five-Day Horseback Trek to Parliament for Te Tiriti. Riders from across the lower North Island will embark on a five-day journey from Waimārama to Wellington to present a petition to Parliament calling for the protection of Te Tiriti o Waitangi clauses in law.. A horseback trek carrying a petition to protect Te Tiriti o Waitangi will depart from Waimārama Marae this Friday, traveling hundreds of kilometres to the steps of Parliament. As reported by Te Ao Māori News, the five-day journey serves as a direct response to the coalition Government’s review of Treaty provisions and the proposed removal or amendment of Te Tiriti principles in legislation. Organised to send a clear message ahead of the November 7 election, the hikoi on horseback will traverse the Ngāti Kahungunu takiwā. Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated chair Bayden Barber stated that the trek is a statement to the current Government and future leaders that Māori are serious about protecting the nation’s founding agreement. This story comes to us from Te Ao Māori News. Story 2. In business. Māori authorities control $32.6 billion asset base as economic growth accelerates. Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka is highlighting a surge in Māori commercial activity following new data showing Māori authorities now manage $32.6 billion in assets.. Aotearoa’s Māori economy is entering a significant new phase of growth, with latest figures revealing that Māori authorities now control $32. New data from Stats NZ, released on 8 September 2026, shows a substantial $830 million increase in the asset base within a single year, highlighting the resilience of Māori commercial activity despite broader economic challenges. Minister for Māori Development Tama Potaka says the focus is now on translating this expanding asset base into tangible outcomes for whānau, including more jobs, higher incomes, and lasting intergenerational wealth. The statistics show that Māori authorities and other significant Māori enterprises combined to employ approximately 55,700 people. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 3. In environment. First Toroa Fledglings Depart Pukekura/Tairaoa Head for Pacific Journey. The first Royal Albatross chicks of the season have begun their 9,000-kilometre journey from the Otago Peninsula to South America, marking a successful conservation milestone for local iwi and the Department of Conservation.. The skies above Pukekura/Tairaoa Head are filled with activity as the first royal albatross chicks of the season begin to fledge. On Tuesday, 8 September 2026, the Department of Conservation (DOC) confirmed that several toroa, including the well-known chick Āwheo, have successfully departed their nests to begin their life on the open ocean. The colony, situated near Ōtepoti/Dunedin, holds the distinction of being the only mainland breeding site for these massive seabirds, which boast wingspans of up to three metres. According to DOC biodiversity ranger Sharyn Broni, the fledging period follows months of preparation. This story comes to us from RNZ. Story 4. In leadership. Te Pāti Māori gains ground in latest Taxpayers’ Union-Curia Poll. Te Pāti Māori has seen a rise in support in the latest Taxpayers’ Union-Curia Poll, gaining 0.5 points as the party pursues a strategic goal to sweep all seven Māori electorates.. Te Pāti Māori has recorded a lift in support in the latest Taxpayers’ Union-Curia Poll, as major political parties face a significant decline in their polling numbers. According to RNZ, the poll released on Monday, 7 September 2026, shows Te Pāti Māori gained 0. 5 percentage points, bringing their total party vote to 2 percent. The results come at a time when the two largest parties, Labour and National, have both seen their support tumble below the 30 percent mark. While the major parties struggle, Te Pāti Māori remains focused on a targeted electoral strategy. The party is working to win all seven Māori seats rather than focusing purely on boosting their party vote. This story comes to us from RNZ. Story 5. In business. Māori authorities hold $32.6 billion in assets as economic strength grows. Latest Stats NZ data reveals Māori authorities now control $32.6 billion in assets and support 55,700 jobs, providing a resilient economic foundation despite national unemployment challenges and a softening market.. New data from Stats NZ reveals robust growth within the Māori economy, with Māori authorities now holding $32. 6 billion in assets as of 2025. This figure represents an increase of $830 million within a single year, underscoring the expanding economic influence of iwi, hapū, and Māori-owned businesses as the country moves toward the 2026 election. As reported by Waatea News, the latest dataset identifies 5,850 Māori-identified businesses, including 1,362 Māori authorities and 4,488 other economically significant enterprises. Together, these entities employ approximately 55,700 people and have generated $5. 7 billion in total income. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 6. In international. Public health researchers call for strengthened New Zealand support for Fiji’s HIV response. Health experts are urging New Zealand to bolster its support for Fiji as the Pacific nation addresses a significant rise in HIV infections through expanded community-led health initiatives.. Public health researchers are calling for New Zealand to significantly strengthen its cooperation with Fiji as the Pacific nation navigates a rapidly escalating HIV epidemic. Dr Sharon McLennan, a public health researcher at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington, recently highlighted that the growth in infections has become a critical regional health security issue, requiring deeper partnerships between Pacific neighbors. Fiji has seen a notable increase in HIV diagnoses, with 2,016 cases recorded in 2025—a 27 percent rise from the previous year. In response to the crisis, Fiji declared a national HIV outbreak in January 2025 and has since moved to expand testing, treatment, and harm-reduction measures. This story comes to us from Waatea News. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rātū, te waru o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In international. First Nations partner with Canadian Energy Metals on massive Saskatchewan alumina project. Canadian Energy Metals has signed a memorandum of understanding with six First Nations as it prepares for a major critical metal mining project near Tisdale, Saskatchewan.. A significant critical metal discovery near Tisdale, Saskatchewan, is fostering new partnerships between industry and Indigenous communities. Canadian Energy Metals (CEM) has signed a memorandum of understanding with six First Nations who hold ancestral ties to the region, according to reporting by CBC News. The agreement comes as the company advances its 'Thor Project,' which targets a massive alumina deposit estimated to contain one-third of the world’s known supply. On Sunday, 6 September 2026, details emerged regarding the project's timeline and the potential economic impact for the local area, located approximately 220 km northeast of Saskatoon. Story 2. In international. Northwest Territories Fur Sales Reach $1 Million Milestone as Global Demand Surges. Inuvialuit trapper Nathan Kogiak reports that auction sales for Northwest Territories pelts have hit $1 million for the first time since 2014, driven by a rebound in global luxury markets.. Professional trapping in Canada’s Northwest Territories is experiencing a significant economic resurgence, with total auction sales surpassing the $1 million mark for the first time in over a decade. Nathan Kogiak, an Inuvialuit trapper and the territory’s co-ordinator for fur marketing and sales, confirmed the milestone following highly successful spring and summer auctions in 2026. Speaking with Lawrence Nayally, host of CBC’s Trail’s End, Mr Kogiak attributed the financial success to a shift in the international luxury market, particularly in China. Increased competition among buyers at the Fur Harvesters Auction house in North Bay, Ontario, has driven prices for limited pelts to record highs. Story 3. In international. Bardi Jawi Rangers and marine scientists confirm crucial reef and mangrove connection. A ten-year collaboration between Bardi Jawi rangers and Australian marine scientists has successfully validated the ecological link between reef and mangrove systems using traditional knowledge.. A decade-long research partnership between Bardi Jawi rangers and Australian marine scientists has yielded significant findings regarding the ecological relationship between coral reefs and mangrove systems. Reported by the National Indigenous Times on 7 September 2026, the collaboration highlights the vital role of Indigenous traditional knowledge in contemporary scientific discovery. The study, led by the Bardi Jawi rangers, focused on confirming long-held cultural understandings of how these two distinct marine environments interact and support one another. Story 4. In international. Indigenous collaboration drives conservation success at Wild Deserts project. The Wild Deserts project at Cameron Corner enters its second decade with the successful reintroduction of six native species previously extinct in the region for over a century.. The Wild Deserts conservation project, located at Cameron Corner north of Broken Hill, is marking a significant milestone as it enters its second decade of operations. The initiative, which focuses on restoring ecological balance to the arid landscape, has successfully reintroduced six native species that had been locally extinct for more than 100 years. According to ABC News, the project has seen the return of bilbies, bettongs, and quolls to the region since 2016. Principal ecologist Rebecca West stated that the work is currently exceeding expectations. This story comes to us from the ABC. Story 5. In arts. New KOHA Initiative to Boost Māori and Pasifika Talent at 2027 World Buskers Festival. The World Buskers Festival returns to Ōtautahi in January 2027 with KOHA, a new initiative led by Savannah Tukariri designed to increase Indigenous representation and celebrate the pūkenga of Māori and Pasifika performers.. The World Buskers Festival is set to return to Ōtautahi Christchurch from 21 to 31 January 2027, featuring a refreshed commitment to Indigenous representation through the launch of a new initiative. As reported by Waatea News on Monday 7 September 2026, the 'KOHA' programme has been established to specifically attract and support Māori and Pasifika performers and entertainers, ensuring their voices are elevated within the performing arts. This initiative marks a significant shift for the long-running festival as it prepares for the 2027 summer season. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 6. In community. Te Matau a Māui sets sail on five-year Te Hokinga voyage following Tākitimu ancestral routes. The waka hourua Te Matau a Māui has departed Ahuriri for a two-month journey to Samoa and Fiji, marking the start of a five-year mission to retrace the ancestral path of the Tākitimu waka.. A significant maritime journey has commenced in Hawke’s Bay as the waka hourua Te Matau a Māui departed from Ahuriri, Te Whanganui-a-Orotu, last week. The voyage, titled Te Hokinga, marks the beginning of an ambitious five-year undertaking to retrace the ancient sea routes originally traversed by the Tākitimu waka. Speaking to Radio Waatea, Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Inc chair Bayden Barber discussed the significance of the mission, which serves as both a cultural pilgrimage and a practical training ground for the next generation of Māori navigators. The initial two-month leg of the journey will see the crew sail to Samoa and Fiji before returning to Aotearoa New Zealand. This story comes to us from Waatea News. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rāhina, te whitu o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In leadership. Māori Queen Envisions Future of Rauora in Powerful Second Koroneihana Address. Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po delivered her second Koroneihana address at Tūrangawaewae Marae, urging rangatahi to shift from a legacy of Raupatu to a future of Rauora through unity and self-determination.. Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po has delivered a powerful call for Māori to shift their trajectory from the legacy of Raupatu (trauma and colonisation) toward a future defined by Rauora (wellbeing and revival). Speaking at Tūrangawaewae Marae on 5 September 2026, the Queen marked her second Koroneihana since the passing of her father, Kiingi Tuuheitia Pootatau Te Wherowhero te tuawhitu. As reported by RNZ and the NZ Herald, the monarch emphasized that while Raupatu is part of the story, it must not be the limit of Māori potential. In her kauwhau delivered in te reo Māori, the Queen described Rauora as a vision where tamariki are secure in their reo and whakapapa, and Māori leaders drive innovation in science and technology. This story comes to us from RNZ. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rātapu, te ono o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In leadership. Koroneihana Celebrations Foster Dialogue on Treaty Partnership at Tūrangawaewae Marae. Iwi and political leaders gathered at Tūrangawaewae Marae for the annual Koroneihana, emphasizing the importance of enduring Treaty partnerships and constitutional respect as the country looks toward the future.. NGĀRUAWĀHIA — Tūrangawaewae Marae became the focal point for national dialogue on Friday, 4 September 2026, as leaders gathered to pay their respects to the Māori monarch, Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po, during the annual Koroneihana celebrations. The event served as a significant platform for iwi leaders to share their visions for Aotearoa New Zealand's constitutional future directly with representatives from across the political spectrum. Speaking from the pae, Ngāi Tahu leader Justin Tipa called for elevated political discourse, urging parties to avoid "lazy thinking" on matters of constitutional significance. This story comes to us from RNZ. Story 2. In leadership. Koroneihana Celebrations: Leaders Challenged to Focus on Nationhood and Māori Aspirations. At the annual Koroneihana at Tūrangawaewae Marae, Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po and iwi leaders have challenged political parties to move beyond shallow debates and build on the nation's constitutional foundations.. Political leaders gathered at Tūrangawaewae Marae in Ngāruawāhia on Friday, 4 September 2026, for the annual Koroneihana celebrations, where they were challenged to look beyond short-term politics toward a unified vision of nationhood. Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po issued a call for parliamentarians to focus on long-term foundations rather than the immediate pressures of the upcoming election, which is 64 days away. Kiingitanga spokesperson Rahui Papa described the event as a “golden opportunity” for politicians to listen to Māori aspirations and the solutions the community provides. This story comes to us from 1News. Story 3. In international. Pacific Nations Unveil $2 Billion Strategy to Phase Out Fossil Fuels. Pacific Island leaders have announced an ambitious $2 billion investment plan aimed at ending fossil fuel dependence and promoting renewable energy across the region.. Leaders across the Pacific have taken a significant step toward energy independence, outlining a new $2. 0 billion investment plan designed to transition the region away from fossil fuels. According to a report from Island Minds published on September 4, 2026, the initiative seeks to address a critical economic drain, as Pacific Island nations currently spend an estimated $6. 0 billion annually on fuel imports. The investment strategy aims to leverage the region's existing commitment to sustainability. While many Pacific nations already possess some of the most ambitious renewable energy and emissions reduction targets globally, the high cost of imported energy has remained a barrier to full economic prosperity. This story comes to us from Scoop. Story 4. In community. Tributes flow for veteran iwi broadcaster and te reo Māori champion Rauru Broughton. Mourners at Pākaraka Marae are celebrating the life and legacy of veteran iwi radio broadcaster Rauru Broughton, remembered as a repository of tikanga and a pioneer of Māori media.. WHANGANUI — The first wave of mourners gathered at Pākaraka Marae near Whanganui on Friday, 28 August 2026, to pay tribute to Rauru Broughton, a veteran iwi broadcaster and revered repository of tikanga who died on Wednesday. The gatherings included representatives from iwi across the Taranaki region, neighbouring areas, and local kura kaupapa Māori, all coming together to honour a man who dedicated his life to the vitality of te reo Māori. Broughton was a pioneering voice in Māori media, with a career spanning several prominent stations including Wellington’s Te Ūpoko o Te Ika, Whanganui-based Awa FM, and New Plymouth’s Te Korimako o Taranaki. Beyond the airwaves, he served as a Mātauranga Māori lecturer at Te Wānanga o Raukawa in Ōtaki. This story comes to us from 1News. Story 5. In community. NRLW star Harata Butler returns to Tūrangawaewae to serve at Koroneihana. Warriors prop Harata Butler is balancing her professional rugby league career with her commitment to the Kiingitanga, serving as a kaihāpai at the second anniversary of Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po’s coronation.. Professional athlete Harata Butler is trading the rugby league field for the wharekai this week, serving as a kaihāpai at Tūrangawaewae Marae for Koroneihana. The Warriors prop, known for her powerful presence on the field and her moko kauae, is among the army of workers ensuring the annual event runs smoothly in Ngāruawāhia as thousands gather to mark the second anniversary of the coronation of Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po. According to 1News, Butler has been a volunteer in Kimiora, the marae’s dining hall, since she was a teenager. Starting as a waitress, she has progressed through various roles to reach the serving bay, an aspiration she has held since childhood. This story comes to us from 1News. Story 6. In leadership. Te Pāti Māori outlines Te Tiriti bottom lines for post-election negotiations. Te Pāti Māori has set constitutional transformation and the protection of Te Tiriti o Waitangi as a non-negotiable requirement for any potential 2026 government coalition.. Te Pāti Māori has signaled its strategic priorities ahead of the 2026 election, establishing the protection of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and constitutional transformation as a fundamental 'bottom line' for any future government negotiations. According to reporting from Waatea News on 5 September 2026, the party’s platform aims to secure a pathway toward a new constitutional framework by the year 2040, marking the bicentenary of the signing of Te Tiriti. A central component of this policy includes the establishment of a $220 million Mātike Mai Fund over four years. This fund is intended to support Māori-led initiatives focused on constitutional change. This story comes to us from Waatea News. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rāhoroi, te rima o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In environment. Mana Whenua Partner in Expanded Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi Flood Protection Project. Mana whenua are playing a central role in a $535.4 million infrastructure project to protect Lower Hutt communities and restore the mauri of the Te Awa Kairangi river.. On 4 September 2026, reports emerged regarding the significant expansion of Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi, a critical flood protection and infrastructure programme in Lower Hutt. Formerly known as RiverLink, the project’s flood protection component has been revised to an estimated $535. 4 million. The initiative represents a significant partnership with mana whenua, who are deeply involved in decisions regarding the future of the river. According to the report, the collaboration ensures that the work addresses essential questions of whakapapa, kaitiakitanga, and the restoration of the health and mauri of the awa alongside urban protection. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 2. In leadership. Green Party MP Teanau Tuiono Calls for Intergenerational Leadership at Koroneihana 2026. Following attendance at Koroneihana, Green Party MP Teanau Tuiono is advocating for political leadership that prioritises the protection of whenua, people, and future generations across Aotearoa and the Pacific.. Speaking following the Koroneihana 2026 celebrations at Tūrangawaewae, Green Party MP Teanau Tuiono has called for a shift in political leadership to prioritise the long-term health of the environment and future generations. As reported by Waatea News on Friday, 4 September 2026, Tuiono attended the gathering of iwi to reflect on the challenges facing whānau and the importance of intergenerational responsibility. Tuiono, the Green Party spokesperson for social development and children, noted that the kaupapa of Koroneihana offered a vital contrast to standard political discourse. He emphasised that environmental protection should not be viewed as a portfolio competing with economic interests but as a fundamental responsibility to mokopuna. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 3. In environment. Kaitiakitanga in Action: Ngamotuaroha Trust Protects Motukawao Islands Sanctuary. The Ngamotuaroha Trust is upholding their role as kaitiaki by enforcing trespass notices to protect the pest-free Motukawao Islands sanctuary from unauthorized commercial landings and waste.. On the Motukawao Islands in the Hauraki Gulf, the Ngamotuaroha Trust is taking decisive steps to protect an ancestral sanctuary through the exercise of kaitiakitanga. According to a report by Te Ao Māori News on Friday, 28 August 2026, the Trust has issued a formal two-year trespass notice to Anglers Lodge Coromandel Limited following ongoing issues with unauthorized visitor landings and the presence of human waste and equipment on the private Māori land. Trustee Kylie Turoa told Te Ao Māori News that the 11 islands are a vital sanctuary for regenerating native bush and seabird breeding grounds, including gannets. The Trust previously secured $832,100 in Jobs for Nature funding to transform the islands into a pest-free environment. This story comes to us from Te Ao Māori News. Story 4. In environment. Rugby League Legend Tāwera Nikau Advocates for Taonga Species at National Hui. Former Kiwi international Tāwera Nikau is leading the charge for environmental restoration, highlighting the urgent need to protect over 3,700 of Aotearoa’s threatened native species.. Former rugby league international Tāwera Nikau has transitioned from the sporting arena to the front lines of environmental conservation, taking up a vital role in protecting Aotearoa New Zealand’s threatened taonga species. Speaking with Dale Husband on Radio Waatea on Friday, 4 September 2026, Nikau shared insights from the recently held Endangered Species National Hui in Kirikiriroa. The event brought together iwi leaders, scientists, and rangatahi to address the confronting reality that nearly 4,000 native species are currently classified as threatened or at risk. As the co-chair of Tāngaro Tuia te Ora, the Endangered Species Foundation, Nikau is championing a restoration model that places mātauranga Māori at its heart. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 5. In business. Māori-led skills training proposal aims to revitalise trades pathways. A proposed $21 million annual investment in Māori-led trades training seeks to address a 15-year low in apprenticeships by connecting iwi and marae-led programmes directly with employers.. A significant new push for Māori-led vocational training is being welcomed as a vital step toward rebuilding employment pathways in Aotearoa. As reported by Waatea News on Friday, 4 September 2026, a proposed $21 million annual investment aims to empower iwi, marae, and Māori providers to design training programmes that meet the specific workforce needs of their own communities. The proposal comes at a critical time for the sector. Data from Education Counts reveals that apprenticeship participation fell by 14 percent during 2025, reaching a 15-year low of 59,720 learners. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 6. In business. Government Investment Backs Māori Enterprise Growth from Geothermal Energy to Export Orchards. Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has announced a $3.4 million investment through the Māori Development Fund to support job creation and export growth for Māori-led businesses.. On Friday, 4 September 2026, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka announced that more than $3. 4 million from the Māori Development Fund (MDF) is being invested into three Māori enterprises to drive regional prosperity and export growth. The funding targets diverse sectors, including renewable energy, horticulture, and premium viticulture, as part of the Government’s wider economic growth plan. At Mōkai, Halcyon Power has received $865,000 to advance green hydrogen production. A joint venture between Tūaropaki Trust and Japan’s Obayashi Corporation, the company utilizes renewable geothermal energy for its operations. Having already successfully shipped hydrogen to Fiji, the firm is now focusing on expansion into the Singapore market. This story comes to us from the Beehive. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rāmere, te whā o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In environment. Kaitiakitanga at Center Stage as Strong El Niño Forecast for Spring 2026. Māori communities and farmers are preparing for a powerful El Niño event expected to peak in late 2026, bringing significant weather contrasts across Aotearoa.. A rapidly strengthening El Niño event, described by scientists as potentially one of the strongest in recent history, is set to influence weather patterns across Aotearoa this spring. According to reporting by Matthew Tukaki for Waatea News on 2 September 2026, the climate phenomenon is already comparable to the 1997 event, with a warming trend in the Pacific noted as the strongest on record. The onset of these conditions is expected to reach a 'very strong' category as early as September, peaking during the late spring and early summer period. For Māori communities, the shift in weather patterns places a renewed focus on kaitiakitanga and resource management. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 2. In community. Auckland Heritage Festival to Showcase Māra Kai and Mana Whenua Food Histories. The 22nd Auckland Heritage Festival will celebrate the rich culinary and agricultural history of Tāmaki Makaurau, highlighting the sophisticated māra kai and food systems of mana whenua.. The Auckland Heritage Festival is set to return for its 22nd year on Saturday 26 September 2026, featuring over 150 events that explore the deep connections between kai, whenua, and community. This year's theme, "Tastes of Tāmaki: A Heritage Feast," places a significant focus on the original food systems of mana whenua, acknowledging that the region's food history began long before European arrival. A key highlight of the festival includes guided explorations of ancestral gardening sites. In Devonport, the archaeological history of Māori gardening will be examined through "The Māra Kai of Te Haukapua. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 3. In leadership. Former All Blacks Captain Taine Randell to Stand for New Zealand First in 2026 Election. Taine Randell, the former All Blacks captain and Hawke’s Bay businessman, has announced his candidacy for the Tukituki electorate in the upcoming 2026 general election.. Former All Blacks captain and businessman Taine Randell is entering the political arena, announcing on Thursday, 3 September 2026, that he will stand for New Zealand First in the Tukituki electorate. Randell, 51, is shifting his focus from the boardroom to the Beehive, citing a desire to restore economic opportunities for New Zealand families and address the rising cost of living. Randell’s transition into politics is driven by personal observations of the challenges facing the next generation. According to reporting from Waatea News, the former rugby star expressed concern over housing affordability and the economic security of young New Zealanders. This story comes to us from Waatea News. Story 4. In international. First Nations Cultural Burning Practices Recognised as Vital Land Management Tool. Traditional First Nations fire management techniques developed over tens of thousands of years are being highlighted as essential tools for Australia’s environmental health.. On Tuesday, 1 September 2026, a report by ABC’s Behind The News highlighted the enduring importance of cultural burning, an Indigenous land management practice developed by First Nations people over tens of thousands of years. The technique, which predates colonisation, is being recognised as a critical tool for maintaining the Australian ecosystem and managing the environment in the modern era. According to reporter Tatenda Chibika, these traditional techniques were meticulously developed by First Nations communities to suit specific local conditions. The practice involves using fire as a controlled and intentional tool to care for the landscape. This story comes to us from the ABC. Story 5. In international. Marri Ngarr artist Ryan Presley wins prestigious $100,000 Telstra Art Award. Artist Ryan Presley has been awarded the top prize at the 2026 Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards for his evocative oil painting, 'Our lifestyle of tranquillity undisturbed'.. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) has announced the winners of the 2026 Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards (NATSIAA), celebrating the depth and diversity of Indigenous creative expression. According to the Koori Mail, Marri Ngarr artist Ryan Presley has claimed the prestigious $100,000 Telstra Art Award for his oil painting, 'Our lifestyle of tranquillity undisturbed'. Presley, who was born in Mparntwe/Alice Springs and is currently based on Yugambeh Country in Queensland, created a work that judges noted for its technical precision and conceptual rigour. The painting depicts a subject resting on a precarious edge between rippling waters and a distant bushfire. Story 6. In business. Māori Tourism Leaders Named Among Finalists for Record-Breaking 2026 New Zealand Tourism Awards. Māori tourism operators have featured strongly in the 2026 New Zealand Tourism Awards finalists, following a record-breaking 177 entries across the industry.. A record number of tourism operators and industry leaders have been named as finalists for the 2026 New Zealand Tourism Awards, with Māori tourism and environmental leadership taking a prominent place in the field. According to Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA), 177 entries were received across 12 categories, surpassing the previous record of 150 entries set last year. TIA Chief Executive Rebecca Ingram noted that the high level of participation reflects an industry that is increasingly proud of its achievements and the quality of visitor experiences provided in Aotearoa. This story comes to us from Waatea News. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.

Kia ora koutou katoa. Nau mai ki te pānui o Tārake mō te Rāpare, te toru o Hepetema, rua mano rua tekau mā ono. Here are today's positive stories from across Aotearoa. Story 1. In environment. New Investment to Restore Southern Scallop Fishery in Tasman and Golden Bays. The Government and industry partners, including Top of the South iwi, are investing over $5 million to restore the Challenger scallop fishery and revitalize marine habitats.. A significant restoration effort is underway to revive the southern scallop fishery in Tasman and Golden Bays, a project aimed at rebuilding a once-thriving regional industry and restoring vital marine habitats. On 2 September 2026, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones announced a $1. 97 million government investment through the Primary Sector Growth Fund (PSGF) for the seven-year Challenger scallop fishery restoration programme. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the government and the Challenger Scallop Enhancement Company (CSEC). Shareholders of CSEC include the eight Top of the South iwi and more than 20 commercial fishing and processing businesses. The total value of the project is $5. This story comes to us from the Beehive. Story 2. In international. Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Elects Cheryl Moore as New Chief in Northern Manitoba. Former vice-chief Cheryl Moore has been elected to lead the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, pledging to prioritize housing, health care, and community unity.. Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation has elected former councillor and vice-chief Cheryl Moore as its new leader following a community vote this week in northern Manitoba. As reported by CBC News on 29 August 2026, Moore emerged victorious in a closely contested three-way race that concluded on Thursday night. She becomes the second woman to be elected chief of the nation, succeeding Angela Levasseur, who served one four-year term. Moore, who has dedicated over three decades to serving the First Nation centered around Nelson House, narrowly defeated Felix Walker in the polls. Speaking to CBC News on Friday, Moore described the experience as nerve-wracking due to the close margins at each polling station. Story 3. In international. Indigenous communities honour Dolly Parton for decades of literacy support. Indigenous nations across North America are paying tribute to the late Dolly Parton, celebrating her profound impact on tribal youth through the Imagination Library’s book-gifting programmes.. Indigenous communities across Indian Country and Canada are mourning the loss and celebrating the legacy of country music legend Dolly Parton, following her death from cancer on 25 August at the age of 80. Parton is being remembered not only for her musical contributions but for her decades of dedicated support to Native American and First Nations literacy through her Imagination Library programme. Parton, a native of Tennessee, maintained a deep connection with the Cherokee people of her homeland. Principal Chief Michell Hicks of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians noted that Parton never lost her connection to the Great Smoky Mountains or the people of the region. Story 4. In international. Indigenous Leaders Gather in Thunder Bay to Strengthen Regional Food Sovereignty. Indigenous leaders and knowledge keepers are meeting at the Mamaw Kimiciminan Food Sovereignty Gathering to share traditional food practices and strengthen community self-determination.. Leaders and knowledge keepers from across northwestern Ontario have convened in Thunder Bay for the Mamaw Kimiciminan Food Sovereignty Gathering, a dedicated event aimed at reclaiming and strengthening Indigenous food systems. Hosted by the Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority (SLFNHA), the gathering serves as a vital platform for sharing traditional food practices, cultural teachings, and ancestral knowledge. According to reporting by CBC News, the event focuses on how Indigenous communities can foster greater self-determination through their relationship with the land and traditional harvests. Story 5. In arts. New Zealand music industry seeks specific support for Māori artists in new election manifesto. A coalition of Aotearoa’s music industry leaders has launched a seven-point election manifesto calling for increased government backing, specifically highlighting the need for support for Māori music.. The New Zealand music industry is calling on the next government to recognize the sector as a vital growth and export industry, unveiling a comprehensive seven-point manifesto to drive the future of local talent. On Monday, 31 August 2026, industry leaders highlighted the need for strategic changes to help Kiwi artists thrive in an increasingly competitive global market, according to reporting by 1News. A key pillar of the industry’s request includes dedicated support for Māori music. The manifesto argues that while New Zealand music contributed $928 million to the national GDP in 2024, more must be done to ensure local artists—including those within the Māori music sector—can capture a fair share of global market value. This story comes to us from 1News. Story 6. In leadership. New Partnership Strengthens Career Pathways for Rangatahi in Te Tai Tokerau. Northland NZ and NorthTec have signed the 'Te Ara Whakamua' agreement to align vocational training with regional economic growth and keep skilled talent within Northland.. A significant new partnership aims to ensure the benefits of economic growth in Te Tai Tokerau remain within the region by creating direct pathways from education to local employment. On Tuesday 1 September, Northland NZ Chief Executive Paul Linton and NorthTec Operational Lead Derek Slatter signed 'Te Ara Whakamua – The Path Forward,' a formal agreement designed to bridge the gap between vocational training and industry needs. The initiative focuses on aligning skills development with the specific requirements of Northland employers, ensuring that as new jobs are generated, local people are qualified to fill them. This story comes to us from Waatea News. That's the pānui for today. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa — thank you for listening to Tārake. Haere rā.