Rōpū Māori

Join Rōpū Māori

Purpose of Rōpū

Rōpū are groups within Te Whare Tikanga Māori and they provide a space for rangatiratanga (self-determination) and kawanatanga (governance). Rōpū provide the opportunity for Māori to come together for whakawhanaungatanga (relationship building), foster a sense of belonging and identity, and engage in various activities, projects, experiences, and learning opportunities.

Drawing on their first-hand knowledge and experience, members bring their understanding, their needs and the needs of their tamariki, to governance discussions through their elected Rōpū representatives. This ensures that decisions reflect the aspirations of whānau Māori, prioritise whānau Māori, and support nurturing environments where whānau Māori can thrive, and tamariki can confidently learn and grow.

Rōpū are organised on a geographical basis. Each of the six Rōpū has up to four representatives to advocate for their collective interests.

Playcentre Aotearoa staff are available to support Rōpū in operating in accordance with the Trust Deed and these Rules as needed, in alignment with the operational support framework set out by the Chief Executive.

Role of the Rōpū

  • Kotahitanga/Unity: Fostering connections among Māori across centres, enhancing relationships,
    building our community, and encouraging tamariki Māori to connect with one another.
  • Rangatiratanga/Upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi: Rōpū demonstrate a strong, lived understanding
    and commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, working alongside their Tiriti partners and Clusters to
    ensure Māori success within Playcentre.
  • Pūkengatanga/Emergent Leadership: Developing the Rōpū, nurturing leaders (tuakana-teina),
    increasing membership, and strengthening connections with centres, Hapori, Te Whare Tikanga
    Māori, and the Board of Trustees.
  • Consultation and Feedback: Rōpū have a responsibility to consult on items brought to them by
    representatives and the Board of Trustees, providing constructive feedback.
  • Decision-Making: Promoting voting participation among whānau Māori, encouraging members to
    engage in governance and attend hui.

Want to join Rōpū

If you identify as being whānau of tamariki Māori within Playcentre, please complete the Rōpū registration form.

Contact your Rōpū Representatives

You are welcome to contact your elected Rōpū representatives via email.