Ngā Mara Ātea – A Marae-Centred Programme (Your Way | Kia Roha)

Ngā Mara Ātea – A Marae-Centred Programme is a day programme with a cultural difference for people with intellectual and physical disabilities, aged 16 to 65.

People participating in this programme are introduced to Tikanga Māori (living by Māori values) and Te Reo Māori (Māori language) in a safe and supportive whānau environment. It is a programme based on Mara – a place of nurturing – and Ātea – a place of belonging – where participants can ‘stand inside the Marae’ so that their ‘distress may cease’.

This programme provides participants with a total cultural experience where they can become a valued member of Kirikiriroa Marae.

Activities Include:

• Learning activities for life skills, daily living, and personal hygiene
• Individual plans with one-on-one support to achieve goals
• Music / Dance, Hip Hop / Zumba
• Sports and recreation
• Te Reo Māori, Waiata and Kapa Haka – singing and action songs
• Harakeke / Weaving–Whakairo / Carving
• Gardening / section maintenance
• Cooking and budgeting
• Arts and crafts
• Participation in marae activities such as powhiri and hui for total Marae and community involvement
• Sensory programme – for men and women

The Benefits Provided by This Programme Include:

• Increased confidence and social skills
• Involvement in the community
• Learning about other cultures
• Exploring new skills
• Building and maintaining friendships