Tūrangawaewae mō te Kīngitanga

Abstract

Tūrangawaewae is an iconic marae located at the heart of the Kīngitanga. Established by Te Pūea Hērangi and other whānau, this marae has come to represent the struggles, successes and history of the Kīngitanga movement. Tūrangawaewae is therefore the embodiment of the Kīngitanga and the people of Waikato. From very humble beginnings, and forged on the tireless efforts of Te Pūea and her followers, this marae has hosted world leaders, monarchs and aristocracy from across the world. All have come to Tūrangawaewae to forge relationships with the Kīngitanga, with Māori and with the New Zealand government. It has become a hallowed place when histories are shared and futures are created. This thesis looks at how Tūrangawaewae encapsulates the Kīngitanga and all that it means. It explores this history of its establishment and highlight the central figures and the motivations behind the building of this marae and complex. In addition, this thesis will show how the different building and features of the marae showcase the ideology of the Kīngitanga movement and its leaders. Based on a traditional approach to Waikato knowledge, and founded on firsthand experience, this thesis reveals an insides perspective of the kīngitanga, the people, various events and the marae of Tūrangawaewae.