An exploration using ‘weaving’ as a concept to represent the rōpū. Weaving is full of symbolism and meanings, embodied with the spiritual values and beliefs for Māori.
This design focusses on the whakataukī ‘waiho i te toipoto, kaua i te toiroa’ as the guiding kaupapa for the association, and the desire to weave people, thoughts and actions together for the benefit of future generations. In addition to this, weaving, and ropes also touch on the ascent to the heavens to retrieve the three baskets of knowledge. The placement of mangopare is to signify autonomy, resilience and determination for excellence. Cultural iconography has also been employed here to convey the groups’ commitment as a kaupapa Māori body working the aspirations of the wider community, “Ngāi Māori”. The direction of the kōwhaiwhai elements also communicate the idea of innovation, future focussed with positive outcomes.
Graphic Designer: Tanu Aumua
Te Rōpū Whakahau ratified the new tohu at the Annual General Meeting held Rāpare (Thursday) 21 Paengawhāwhā (April) 2016, Parihaka, Taranaki.
The new tohu is being phased in across the association’s media.