Ohaki Marae

About Ohaki Marae

Hosted in the heart of Pawarenga, Northland, Ohaki Marae stands as a cherished Māori cultural venue under the guardianship of Te Rarawa iwi. This sacred space is more than just a physical location; it is a taonga (treasure) that embodies the spirit of community and ancestral connections. Central to the Marae is the wharenui (meeting house), often considered the heart of the space, where stories of ancestors are shared, and cultural practices are preserved. Ohaki Marae welcomes gatherings that strengthen bonds, guided by tikanga (Māori protocols) to ensure respect and harmony. Managed by Te Rūnanga o Te Rarawa, which works to advance the cultural, spiritual, and social aspirations of the iwi, the Marae reflects a commitment to nurturing the future of its people while protecting its heritage.

As a Māori community hub, Ohaki Marae plays a pivotal role in bringing people together for a variety of events. Whether it’s a hui to discuss important matters, a tangihanga to honor the departed, or a wedding to celebrate new beginnings, each occasion is steeped in tradition. The Marae provides a space where manaakitanga— the ethos of generosity and care—shines through, ensuring that all who enter are embraced with warmth and respect. For those looking to host events at a Marae in Pawarenga, Ohaki Marae offers an authentic and meaningful setting that honors both the occasion and the cultural values of the community.

Cultural Significance of Ohaki Marae

Embedded in the fabric of Māori society, Ohaki Marae serves as a powerful symbol of identity and belonging for Te Rarawa. Maraes are not merely venues but are living spaces where history, spirituality, and community converge. They are places where whanaungatanga, the sense of kinship and interconnectedness, is fostered, ensuring that relationships are nurtured across generations. At Ohaki Marae, every gathering adheres to tikanga, the customary practices that guide behavior and interactions, preserving the integrity of Māori traditions.

The Marae’s role extends to hosting a range of culturally significant events. Hui bring together individuals and whānau (families) to deliberate on communal matters, while tangihanga provide a sacred space to grieve and pay respects in accordance with Māori customs. Weddings held at the Marae weave modern celebrations with ancestral blessings, creating memories grounded in cultural depth. Beyond specific events, Ohaki Marae is a bastion of manaakitanga, where visitors are welcomed as part of the extended family, reflecting the Māori value of hospitality. This ethos ensures that cultural ceremonies in Pawarenga are not only events but profound communal experiences.

Respect for tikanga is paramount at Ohaki Marae, as it is at all Maraes. Protocols govern how one enters the space, speaks, and participates, ensuring that the mana (prestige) of the Marae and its people is upheld. For those unfamiliar with these customs, guidance is often provided by kaumatua (elders) or community members to ensure respect is maintained. Engaging with a Marae like Ohaki for events offers a unique opportunity to immerse in Māori culture, fostering understanding and connection through shared values. By choosing to host events at a Marae in Pawarenga, individuals and groups contribute to the ongoing vitality of this cultural treasure, supporting its role as a Māori community hub.

Discover Pawarenga

Amidst the tranquil landscapes of Northland’s Far North District lies Pawarenga, a small yet culturally rich community that is home to Ohaki Marae. This remote setting, surrounded by natural beauty and steeped in history, provides a serene backdrop for cultural events and gatherings. Pawarenga’s connection to Te Rarawa iwi adds a layer of depth, as the area resonates with the stories and traditions of this northern tribe. Hosting events here offers a chance to step away from urban clamor and into a space where time seems to slow, allowing for meaningful connections with people and place.

The appeal of Pawarenga extends beyond the Marae itself. The Far North is renowned for its stunning coastal vistas, rolling hills, and strong Māori heritage, making it a destination that captivates the soul. Nearby landmarks such as the Hokianga Harbour, often referred to as the cradle of Māori arrival in Aotearoa, offer a glimpse into the historical significance of the region. For those planning cultural ceremonies in Pawarenga, the location enhances the experience with its sense of timelessness and grounding energy.

Choosing Ohaki Marae as a venue for Marae events means embracing the essence of Northland’s cultural landscape. The Far North District is a place where Māori history and contemporary life intertwine, creating an environment that is both inspirational and humbling. Visitors and event organizers are encouraged to engage with the local community, learning about the stories that shape Pawarenga and Te Rarawa. This engagement deepens the experience of hosting events at a Marae in Pawarenga, ensuring that the occasion is imbued with cultural authenticity and communal warmth. Ohaki Marae, in its peaceful Pawarenga setting, stands as a testament to the enduring strength and hospitality of Māori culture, inviting all to share in its legacy.