Strengthening the bonds between the Maoris and Israel
November 27, 2018 by J-Wire Newsdesk
Read on for article
Indigenous solidarity reached a crescendo in Northland in New Zealand as the Northland Ngapuhi hosted Israeli Ambassador Dr Itzhak Gerberg, for a powerful Powhiri and Hakari Banquet.
Outside the marae
Held at the Kohewhata Marae in Kaikohe, Northland, the “Heart to Heart Powhiri” held in Māori tradition included a ceremony, songs and performances by local groups.
Northland, as its name insinuates, is the top part of New Zealand’s North Island.
Ambassador Gerber [rt] wearing the Korowa
The purpose of the hui was to make “a clear stand” and embrace Israel further tightening the bonds between the Māori and Israel, “reconciling whenua to whenua – with Tangata whenua!”
The event was held on Sunday marking the culmination of Jacqueline Te Huia and Janine Marie Smith’s Aotearoa Reconciliation Cry Journey to Jerusalem and back. Yesterday, a delegation including Ambassador Gerberg toured Taiamai Waka and the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
