Pāteoro Marae

About Pāteoro Marae

At the heart of Kohukohu in Northland, Pāteoro Marae stands as a cherished Māori cultural venue, representing the spiritual and communal essence of the Te Rarawa iwi. Affiliated with Te Rūnanga o Te Rarawa, this Marae serves as a pivotal space for fostering the cultural, social, and spiritual growth of its people. As with many Maraes, it is anchored by key features such as the wharenui (meeting house), a sacred space often adorned with intricate carvings and tukutuku panels that tell stories of ancestry and history. Pāteoro Marae is not merely a physical location but a living embodiment of Māori identity, where traditions are upheld, and connections are deepened through shared experiences.

This Marae provides a welcoming environment for various gatherings, ensuring that tikanga (traditional protocols) guide every event. It is a space where the past meets the present, offering a unique setting for those who wish to engage with Māori culture in a respectful and authentic manner. Whether it’s a solemn occasion or a joyous celebration, Pāteoro Marae facilitates events with deep reverence for its cultural foundations.

Cultural Significance of Pāteoro Marae

Treasured as a cornerstone of Māori life, Pāteoro Marae plays an integral role in preserving and sharing the customs and values of the Te Rarawa people. Maraes are often described as the turangawaewae (standing place) for iwi (tribes) and hapū (sub-tribes), a foundation where individuals can reconnect with their roots and affirm their sense of belonging. At Pāteoro Marae, concepts such as manaakitanga (hospitality) shine through, ensuring that all who enter are greeted with warmth and care, regardless of background.

Another vital principle is whanaungatanga, the sense of kinship and interconnectedness that binds communities together. Events held at the Marae—such as hui (meetings to discuss important matters), tangihanga (funerals to mourn and honor the departed), and weddings (uniting families in celebration)—are imbued with these values, creating lasting memories grounded in tradition. Tikanga governs every aspect of proceedings, from the pōwhiri (welcome ceremony) to the sharing of kai (food) in the wharekai (dining hall), ensuring respect for ancestors and the living alike.

As a Māori community hub, Pāteoro Marae also stands as a place of learning and transmission of cultural knowledge. It is where stories, waiata (songs), and kōrero (narratives) are shared, fostering pride in heritage among younger generations. For visitors wishing to host events at a Marae in Kohukohu, engaging with these cultural protocols offers an opportunity to participate in a deeply meaningful experience, one that transcends the ordinary and connects to the timeless spirit of Aotearoa.

Discover Kohukohu

A quaint settlement in Northland’s Far North District, Kohukohu offers a serene and culturally rich backdrop for hosting events at Marae in Kohukohu like Pāteoro Marae. Located along the Hokianga Harbour, this historic town is steeped in both Māori and European history, once a bustling hub for timber milling in the 19th century. Today, it exudes a quiet charm, with its heritage buildings, scenic views, and deep connection to the whenua (land) that holds significance for the local iwi.

The surrounding Northland region is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from the lush forests of the Waipoua Kauri Forest—home to the ancient Tāne Mahuta tree—to the tranquil waters of the Hokianga. This area offers a peaceful setting for cultural ceremonies in Kohukohu, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and spiritual depth of the region. Kohukohu’s proximity to other culturally significant sites in Northland makes it an ideal location for those seeking to host Marae events while exploring the wider historical and cultural tapestry of Aotearoa.

For those planning gatherings, the town provides a respite from the bustle of urban life, inviting a slower pace that aligns with the reflective nature of many Māori cultural events. Whether you’re drawn to Pāteoro Marae for a wedding, hui, or tangihanga, the surrounding environment of Kohukohu enhances the experience, grounding attendees in the beauty and history of Te Tai Tokerau (Northland). Engaging with local communities and respecting the cultural context of this unique location ensures that your event becomes part of a larger narrative of connection and respect.