Araiteuru Marae manager Tania Williams sounds the putatara — a traditional Maori instrument made from a giant conch shell, representing the physical and spiritual call for the Dunedin community to gather for Saturday's community engagement powhiri at the Shetland St marae. Continuing a tradition that has built up over several years, the Araiteuru Marae community engagement powhiri on Saturday will welcome and introduce newcomers to New Zealand to the marae experience. Araiteuru Marae manager Tania Williams has an invitation and a challenge for the wider community as well — it is time that everyone experienced the essence of marae. On Saturday morning, visitors are asked to arrive at the Araiteuru Marae car park from 10.30-10.45am, ready to be called on to the marae at 11am. People who wish to share a performance during Saturday’s powhiri are invited to reach out via email toaraiteuru.marae@xtra.co.nzor otago@redcross.org.nz.

Source: Otago Daily Times November 19, 2020 04:30 UTC