Ko au te awa, ko te awa ko au — I am the river, and the river is me.
To experience the depth and grasp the veracity of this traditional Māori whakataukī (proverb), a group of top industry trade partners from around the world recently gathered for a guided 3-day cultural journey on the Whanganui River.
Trade partners from Canada, Germany, France, Australia, and Aotearoa serving clients across the globe, arrived in the small town of Owhango in Ruapehu, prepped and ready to experience the awa (river) with the people of the river.
As the first river in the world to be granted personhood and recognised as a living entity, the Whanganui River is a sacred taonga, a treasure for local iwi. An ancient pathway gardened by the people who lived along its shores, known then as Te Wainui a Rua, the Whanganui River can be paddled by waka or canoe, revealing hidden beauty at every rapid and every bend, with day after day of awe-inspiring scenery and rich storytelling from local cultural navigators as guides.
Paora Haitana, Tamahaki iwi leader sees tourism as a tool that can help regenerate and rejuvenate communities, a people, and the land. Paora supported this trade famil and welcomed the group at Tīeke Marae with a pōwhiri, a traditional Māori welcome, above the banks of the Whanganui River.
“We have an opportunity to share who we really are, our ancient protocols and the living history of our people and place. Visitors who journey on the awa with native river guides can experience first-hand the stories of our people who call this mighty waterway home – a magical provider of many species of fish and traditional foods but also the giving, healing nature of te ao mārama, our natural world,” shares Paora.
An authentic, transformative experience for many who attended, participants experienced what kaitiaki (guardianship) looks like, what kotahitanga (unity) feels like and how nature truly nurtures.
From the sacred waters to the lush tree line gracing the river’s edge, the hidden waterfalls, and sites of cultural significance, it was a memorable journey for all in attendance including representatives from New Zealand Māori Tourism, Once Upon a Trip, Pacific Destinations, Rotorua NZ, Southern World, Tāpoi Travel, Tourism New Zealand, Visit Ruapehu, and VolaTWO, thanks to the hospitality provided the Owhango Adventures team.
Owhango Adventures is located on State Highway 4 along the Adventure Highway in Owhango - an old milling town that is also home to the stunning Ohinetonga scenic reserve, boutique holiday homes, the finish point of the iconic T42 mountain bike track as well as the popular Blue Hill Café.
For more information:
Mahalee Guieysse
PR and Trade Manager
Visit Ruapehu
021-2442 887
