We were very honoured to be hosted by the Parihaka Papakāinga Trust recently in Taranaki to hear their story first-hand, about the mass confiscation and dispossession of Māori from their lands that took place from 1860 to 1900 which have affected the political, cultural, and spiritual dynamics of our country.
Tohu Kākahi and Te Whiti o Rongomai led the Parihaka movement where both men were committed to non-violent action in order to resist the invasion of their estates and to protect Māori independence. In 2003 the Parihaka leaders were recognised post-humously by an international delegation of representatives of Martin Luther King Jnr, Mahatma Gandhi and Daisaku Ikeda for their foundational work and sacrifice as fathers of non-violent action. Parihaka today is a small settlement of buildings and homes and is still the meeting place of the peoples of Tohu Kākahi and Te Whiti o Rongomai. The 18th and 19th days of every month is still the pivotal forum of the community wherein the traditions and teachings of Parihaka are maintained. The spiritual legacy is one of living in harmony with the land and humanity. It is also a legacy of nonviolent resistance action and a belief in the peaceful and respectful co-existence of Māori and other races.
The Tindall Foundation supports the mahi that the Parihaka Community continue today. Plans for a Visitor Centre are underway for this spiritual and historical site. Find out more about Parihaka here.
