Te Touwai Marae

About Te Touwai Marae

Whānau (family) and community find a sacred home at Te Touwai Marae, a treasured Māori cultural venue located in Kaeo, Northland. Situated in the heart of the Far North district, this Marae serves as a cornerstone for local iwi (tribes) and hapū (sub-tribes), offering a space where traditions are preserved and shared. Central to the Marae is the wharenui (meeting house), often adorned with intricate carvings and tukutuku panels that tell stories of ancestry and history. As a place of gathering, it hosts a range of events deeply rooted in Māori values, from hui (community meetings) to tangihanga (funerals) and weddings. Te Touwai Marae embodies the essence of togetherness, providing a meaningful backdrop for life’s most important moments.

Beyond its physical structures, the Marae represents a living connection to the past, present, and future of its people. It is a space where the principles of manaakitanga (hospitality) and kaitiakitanga (guardianship) are practiced, ensuring that all who enter are welcomed with warmth and respect. Whether you are part of the local community or a visitor seeking to engage with Māori culture, Te Touwai Marae in Kaeo offers a profound experience grounded in authenticity and reverence.

Cultural Significance of Te Touwai Marae

Tikanga (Māori protocols) forms the foundation of life at Te Touwai Marae, guiding every interaction and event held within its grounds. As a Māori community hub, the Marae is more than just a venue; it is a taonga (treasure) that nurtures the spiritual and cultural well-being of its people. Events such as tangihanga provide a space for mourning and remembrance, allowing whānau to come together in grief and support. Hui bring communities together for discussion and decision-making, while weddings celebrated here are imbued with cultural rituals that honour both the couple and their heritage.

The Marae also plays a pivotal role in upholding whanaungatanga, the Māori concept of kinship and relationships. It strengthens bonds between generations, ensuring that stories, language, and customs are passed down through kōrero (conversation) and waiata (songs). For those planning Marae events, understanding and respecting these protocols is essential. Visitors are encouraged to participate with an open heart, guided by the hospitality of the tangata whenua (people of the land). Engaging in cultural ceremonies in Kaeo at a venue like Te Touwai Marae offers a rare opportunity to connect with the heart of Māori culture in an authentic and respectful way.

Every gathering at the Marae reflects a commitment to community values over individual gain. This is a place where the collective spirit shines, fostering unity and shared purpose. Whether you seek to host events at a Marae in Kaeo or simply wish to learn more about Māori traditions, Te Touwai Marae stands as a beacon of cultural pride and resilience in Northland.

Discover Kaeo

Amidst the rolling hills and serene landscapes of Northland, Kaeo is a small yet vibrant township in the Far North district, known for its deep Māori roots and breathtaking natural beauty. Often referred to as the gateway to the Far North, Kaeo is steeped in history and offers a unique blend of cultural and environmental wonders. It lies close to significant landmarks such as the Whangaroa Harbour, a stunning coastal area with dramatic cliffs and sheltered waters, making it a memorable setting for visitors exploring cultural venues like Te Touwai Marae.

Kaeo’s surrounding region is rich with Māori heritage, from ancient pā sites to modern expressions of iwi identity. The township serves as a gateway to exploring the wider Northland area, where events and cultural ceremonies in Kaeo can be complemented by visits to nearby attractions like the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, just an hour’s drive away. This sacred location holds immense historical significance as the birthplace of Aotearoa New Zealand’s founding document. For those planning to host events at a Marae in Kaeo, the area offers not only a cultural experience but also a chance to immerse in the natural beauty and tranquility of the Far North.

The welcoming spirit of Kaeo aligns seamlessly with the values of manaakitanga embodied by Te Touwai Marae. Visitors can expect a warm reception from the local community, eager to share their stories and traditions. Whether you are attending or organizing Marae events, Kaeo provides a backdrop that enhances the depth and meaning of every occasion, ensuring a lasting impression of Māori culture and Northland’s unique charm.