Whakaaro Whakairo is an initiative run by Te Korowai Manaaki Charitable Trust, established to promote and enhance the cultural, economic, health and environmental wellbeing of its community. Based in Ōtaki and having a Ngāti Raukawa focus it operates for the general community.

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The main activity of the trust is the annual Whakaaro Whakairo ARTS Symposium Ōtaki. It was initially set up in 2016 for stone carvers but has broadened to include wood carvers, weavers and other visual arts practitioners. The symposium attracts like-minded artists sharing ideas and inspiration in a creative environment.

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Ōtaki is a centre of Māori cultural renaissance, academic achievement and an area of historical and cultural significance. Located here are the historical churches of Rangiatea and the Pukekaraka Catholic Mission. Stunning natural locations including the Tararua Ranges, Ōtaki River, Ōtaki Beach and Kāpiti Island.

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Te Korowai Manaaki Charitable Trust agreed to alter the symposium title from Sculptural to ARTS, increasing the scope of artistic practitioners for future events.

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Mai i te kāuru ki ngā waitapu, ki ngā wai tuku kiri o te iwi, ki ngā rehurehu o te tai.Kore au e ngaro, he kākano i ruia mai i Rangiātea.

 

From the source to the sacred rivers, to the life giving waters, onward to the ocean.I will never be lost, for I am a seed sown from Rangiātea.