Rotorua to host inaugural Rongoa Conference

Rotorua to host inaugural Rongoa Conference, Sun 27th – Wed 30th January 2013

Over 140 delegates from across New Zealand will be gathering at Tunohopu marae, Rotorua to attend the inaugural meeting of Te Kahui Rongoa, a national organisation dedicated to sharing, nurturing and protecting traditional healing systems, starting on Sunday 27th and continuing on to Wednesday 30th January.

Rongoa is a traditional healing system that focuses on the oral transmission of knowledge, diversity of practice and the spiritual dimension of health. Rongoa also encompasses herbal remedies, physical therapies and spiritual healing.

Waiariki representative for Te Kahui Rongoa Trust, Marie Stewart explained “Te Kahui Rongoa Trust was formed in 2012 as a result of merging Nga Ringa Whakahaere and Te Paepae Matua Mo Rongoa.”

“Governed by 20 elected trustees representing ten rohe, Te Kahui Rongoa Trust is the recognised national governance body charged with protecting, nurturing and promoting rongoa me ona tikanga in accordance with hapu and iwi tino rangatiratanga” said Ms Stewart.

“Waiariki representatives will be welcomed on Sunday evening, to prepare for the wider conference.” Ms Stewart said “This is the first time we have held hui taumata since the rongoa whanau merged, therefore we are utilising this opportunity to officially launch Te Kahui Rongoa Trust on Monday 28 January 2013 at Tunohopu Marae in Rotorua. Powhiri will be held at 10am.”

“The public are invited to join us at Te Ao Marama and Tunohopu Marae on Tuesday 29th January 2013 from 10am to sample whanau ora practices within the concept of Rongoā Maori” said Ms Stewart.

“We are also inviting any exhibitors who may wish to share their health and rongoa products, health services, natural remedies, spiritual healing and physical therapy to participate in a public open day on Tuesday 29th. Stalls are free but spaces are limited”

ENDS

http://www.rongoamaori.org.nz/index.php/Home

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