Hauraki Maori Arts

08/08/2026

Weekend spent with our Ngati Tumutumu Whanau in Te Aroha

03/08/2026

🔨 WHAKAIRO WĀNANGA – EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST 🔨

Kia ora e te whānau!

We have some exciting news!

With the support of our local community, we're in the process of launching a Whakairo Wānanga here in Thames. As part of the legal requirements, it's being registered as a community event, and we'd love to see who else is interested in being part of this kaupapa.

Over the past few months, we've spoken with many people wanting to learn whakairo, reconnect with their culture, or simply try something new. We've also had parents asking for opportunities for their tamariki to learn traditional Māori carving in a safe and supportive environment.

The best part?
✨ No experience is needed.
We'll teach you everything from the ground up.

This will be only the second Whakairo Wānanga held in the Thames area and will be led by one of the very first students from the original local wānanga. You'll have the opportunity to learn and carve alongside some of the artists behind many of the whakairo you see throughout Thames today.

Whether you're looking to:
🪵 Learn the art of whakairo
🌿 Reconnect with your whakapapa and culture
🤝 Meet like-minded people
🎨 Develop a new skill
❤️ Support the revival of traditional Māori arts
..there's a place here for you.

If you'd be interested in joining, comment "Keen" below or send our page a message. Feel free to tag your whānau and friends who might enjoy being part of this journey too.

Numbers will be limited, so registering your interest early will help us plan the first intake.

Nau mai, haere mai. Let's keep the traditions of our tūpuna alive—one carving at a time.

02/08/2026

Sunday Activities
Exploring the Hauraki

27/07/2026

You can catch us on a sunny day just carving away at the beach where it feels great.

Whanau out here carving with Tangaroa

24/07/2026

21/07/2026

Learn Tāniko with Veranoa Hetet

21/07/2026

21/07/2026

Home

18/07/2026

Guess it's Time to take a look back at the origins of whakairo, Acknowledging the art that was handed down to us throughout generations.

Hauraki Maori Arts

18/07/2026

FULL TIME 🐯

A strong 30–18 win for our Hauraki Tiger Men against Whaingaroa Whai!

Players of the Day:
🥇 3 Points – Justice Murcott
🥈 2 Points – Zeke Judd
🥉 1 Point – Darren Martin & Tyrone Keith

POD Proudly sponsored by Te Rapa Wholesale Cars.

Thank you Whaingaroa Whai for a tough game of footy and to everyone who constantly show up to support us no matter the weather! 🖤💛