Join us live as iwi arrive for Rātana celebrations.
Rātana began in 1918 when Tahupōtiki Wiremu Rātana had a vision to unite Māori through faith and politics. The movement became influential, blending Christianity with te ao Māori and forming a political alliance with Labour, shaping Māori rights in Aotearoa.
The annual Rātana celebrations mark the start of the political year in Aotearoa, drawing leaders to engage with iwi and acknowledge the movement’s legacy of Māori advocacy in politics.
The brass band Ngā Reo o Rātana guides manuhiri onto Rātana Pā, acting as kaiwero. It clears the way, making the marae ātea a safe space. Their music is said to echo the sound of Tikitiki-o-Rangi from the 12th heaven.
Tumu Heuheu of Ngāti Tūwharetoa is arriving today, alongside Te Arikinui Kuini Nga wai hono i te po.
Follow our live updates below.
11:20am
That concludes the morning pōwhiri for Day 1 of Rātana 2025. Join us again at 2pm for the afternoon celebrations.
11:01am
Te Tai Tokerau Āpōtoro and Te Reo participant Jacob Tobin reflects on this year’s Rātana celebration.
Speaking to Te Karere’s Te Okiwa McLean, he says that despite ongoing tensions, unity can still be seen throughout the church across Aotearoa
10:40am
Shiloh Goldsworth on what it takes to be a mōrehu.
10:25am
Te Aroha Hakaraia (Mōrehu) comes to Rātana Pā for annual celebrations almost every year.
She says her nanny was a big influence on her belief in the Rātana faith, and reflects on the interwoven history her whānau shares with the church.
9:52am
You can watch live here:
9:43am
Mōrena and welcome to our live updates.
We’re partnering with Aukaha News, Te Reo o te Uru, Awa FM and Te Karere to bring you coverage from Rātana Pā.
