Te Whare o Tīmata: A Whānau-Centered Journey of Learning, Connection, and Māori Identity

Nestled in the heart of Te Puke, Bay of Plenty, Te Whare o Tīmata is more than just an educational tool—it is a living, breathing expression of Mātauranga Māori, designed to inspire, teach, and connect. It is a place where whānau, tamariki, and communities can come together to explore ancestral heritage, whakapapa, and cultural identity in an engaging and immersive way.

For Shona Ua-Marsh—mother, grandmother, educator, and lifelong learner—Te Whare o Tīmata represents the transformative embrace of Te Ao Māori. Knowing where we come from shapes who we are, linking us to our whānau, iwi, hapū, and tūpuna. This connection is at the heart of Te Whare o Tīmata’s kaupapa.

A Place of Learning, Whānau, and Connection

Te Whare o Tīmata is a dynamic educational resource, offering an interactive way to engage with Māori culture. Through art, storytelling, and hands-on experiences, it brings to life the rich traditions and knowledge passed down through generations. It is a space where tamariki and adults alike can discover, learn, and grow, guided by the core values of:

🌿 Whakapapa – Honoring and nurturing the interconnectedness of people, land, and all living beings, recognizing our shared origins and the wisdom of our tūpuna.

🤝 Manaakitanga – Creating a culture of respect, care, and support, fostering a sense of belonging where all individuals feel valued and uplifted.

❤️ Kotahitanga – Encouraging collaboration and unity within our whānau and wider community, embracing diversity and collective efforts to achieve shared aspirations.

💪 Whakamana – Empowering individuals to embrace their identity, potential, and cultural heritage, ensuring the transmission of knowledge to future generations.

🌏 Kaitiakitanga – Upholding our responsibility as guardians of our resources, community, and environment, ensuring that our actions today sustain the well-being of generations to come.

Sustainable, Whānau-Oriented, and Future-Focused

Crafted entirely from 100% recycled and recyclable materials, Te Whare o Tīmata embodies the Māori principle of kaitiakitanga, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and responsible stewardship. It is a reflection of the belief that our connection to the past must also guide our future, ensuring that our natural and cultural heritage is protected and preserved.

Through this kaupapa, Te Whare o Tīmata stands as a taonga (treasure) for whānau, educators, and communities, fostering a future where learning is a journey, connection is deep, and identity is celebrated.

Come and experience Te Whare o Tīmata—where knowledge, whānau, and whakapapa come together to shape a future rooted in the wisdom of the past.