Exploring the Hunter Gatherer Gardener Mission | Tuna (Eel) Catching with Rangatahi from Ko Wai Au | Poutini Waiora

We recently had the privilege of hosting an amazing group of rangatahi from Ko Wai Au at the Hunter Gatherer Gardener (HGG) program, with the invaluable support of Te Pūtahitanga o Te Waipounamu and our Koanga Kai initiative.

This day was more than an experience; it was a powerful opportunity for us to connect, learn, and share the values that drive our mission of sustainable living and traditional knowledge.

Welcomed by Ra, the program facilitator and the heart of HGG, the rangatahi stepped into a hands-on journey with us, discovering the rich heritage of our whenua.

Their energy, curiosity, and respect were both inspiring and refreshing. Guided by Ra, they had the chance to try their hands at tuna (eel) catching, a treasured practice that embodies both skill and respect for our natural resources. This experience wasn’t just about fishing—it was about rekindling the connection to cultural practices and understanding the balance between taking from and giving back to the land.

A special thanks to Tainui for joining us on this memorable day, and a huge mihi to Nelly and the team at Poutini Waiora, whose support made this journey possible. Their collective efforts continue to strengthen our connection to our whenua and our whānau, empowering these rangatahi to carry forward skills that honor our traditions and enhance our shared future.

We’re thrilled to see where this journey with Ko Wai Au will lead and excited for the possibilities that this partnership with Ra and the HGG program will inspire.

Tune into our future posts as we continue to explore the art of living in harmony with the land and fostering a meaningful legacy.

For more about our mission and to join the journey, visit www.huntergatherergardener.co.nz.

Ngā mihi nui!

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