Unit 1 Lesson 1: Ko Wai Au? - Personal Whakapapa Exploration

🌿 Cultural Guidance

Whakapapa is sacred and connects us to our tīpuna (ancestors), our whenua (land), and our future generations. Share only what feels appropriate and comfortable.

My Whakapapa Journey

1. Ko Wai Au? (Who Am I?)

Prompt: Write your name and share something meaningful about what your name represents or means to you.

2. My Whānau Connections

Prompt: Who are the important people in your whānau (family)? This could include biological family, chosen family, or those who have raised you.

3. My Whenua (Land Connections)

Prompt: What places are important to you? Where do you feel you belong? This could be where you were born, live now, or places that feel like home.

4. My Cultural Heritage

Prompt: What cultural traditions, languages, or practices are part of your identity? How do they connect you to your ancestors?

5. My Values and Beliefs

Prompt: What values guide you? What do you believe is important in life? How might these connect to your whānau or cultural background?

6. My Future Whakapapa

Prompt: How do you want to contribute to your whānau, community, or the world? What legacy do you hope to create?

🤝 Sharing Guidelines

Remember: You choose what to share. Whakapapa is personal and sacred. Share only what feels comfortable and appropriate for you.

📚 Additional Resources

Explore these curated resources to deepen your understanding of whakapapa and Māori identity:

  • 🌐 Te Ara Encyclopedia: Whakapapa - genealogical connections
  • 📖 Ministry of Education: Teaching about Māori identity in schools
  • 🎥 Māori Television: Understanding whakapapa in modern contexts

Curriculum alignment