RUIA TAITEA was established after a tono (request) by our Tūwharetoa marae to have a Tūwharetoa event to celebrate our culture. Our iwi spans the width of the Central north island from Te Awa o te Atua to Tokorangi. We are blessed with a rich culture of Kapahaka, kai, toi and most of all - aroha.

Our Ariki, Tā Tumu Te Heuheu is honoured to host the very first Ruia Taitea Festival in 2025. Our first Ruia Taitea is non-competitive however subsequent festivals, hosted by our many marae, will establish competitive Marae Kapahaka. We hope that Ruia Taitea will help instil iwi, hapū and marae pride within our people. Kia whakahokia mai ki Te Kapua Whakapipi - So that our people may return home!

​

The Ruia Taitea Festival takes its name from a famous proverb by our tupuna, Tamamutu. He said "Ruia taitea kia tū ko taikākā anake" when he famously went to battle with Te Roro o te rangi.

This proverb denotes that the taikaka (heart of the totara tree) is revealed once the outer bark is removed. This was an analogy for his war party as he went to battle with only a few but they were his top warriors. This sentiment of working to reveal excellence and quality is the desired outcome for this festival.

​

Ruia Taitea is underpinned by 5 pou which gives our purpose its structure.

 

Anei ōna pou:

* Tūwharetoa ki te ao haka - Developing Kapahaka within Tūwharetoa

* Ko te reo te take - Reclaiming and using our Reo with pride

* Nui te kai, nui te aroha - Empowering our ringawera, hunters and gatherers to feed our people through aroha.

* Tahuna te ahi - Supporting hapu through administration, Pakihi projects, hapu registered vendors, or hapu or Iwi endorsed vendors for the event.

* Toi Tūwharetoa - Ngati Tuwharetoa artists engaged to adorn and beautify the event.