Pakohe Papers - Whanganui ki te Ao!

Marilyn and Marty Vreede, the creators and directors of Pakohe Whanganui, are dedicated to sharing the richness of Māori culture with the world through their motto "Whanganui ki te Ao", Whanganui to the world. Proudly rooted in the beauty and spirit of the Whanganui River, their mission is to craft high-quality, authentic Māori educational resources and deliver inspiring professional development workshops. Their work reflects deep respect for Te Awa Tupua, ensuring every offering upholds the river’s mana.

Specialising in tikanga-based arts practices and cultural competency training, Marilyn and Marty supports organisations like Home Ground to build a stronger foundation for community practice. After a powerful one-day wānanga with them at the beginning of 2024 (thanks Arts Access Aotearoa!) the Home Ground crew felt a strong sense of alignment for future collaboration.

Creative New Zealand generously supported our mission, and we were able to develop a series of workshops. In November 2024 we were hosted by UCOL in Whanganui and spent the day delving into Te Whare Tapa Whā as a model for wellbeing.

Working at Marilyn and Marty's studio in Whanganui, handling harakeke fibres during the paper making process.

Then in February 2025, we had the absolute pleasure of spending two unforgettable days with Marilyn and Marty. Held at their stunning whare, the wānanga was a deeply enriching experience, surrounded by beautiful art, inspiring indoor and outdoor workspaces, and the joy of sharing kai around their big table.

Marty generously guided us through the harakeke paper-making process (minus the two-week prep!), taking us step-by-step from recycling and washing the fibres to laying, drying and stacking the paper. Then we got to create our own woodcut prints, while listening to the history of the area and the impact of colonisation.

Throughout the process, powerful teachings emerged: carving out space, connecting with the elements, moving with patience and trust, and embracing community. We carry this experience close to our hearts and look forward to weaving its wisdom into our ongoing Home Ground practices. 💖

One of the most powerful aspects of our time with Pakohe Papers was the deep respect and care shown for tikanga Māori, especially in the way the use of harakeke as a resource was approached. From the very beginning, every step of the process was guided by tikanga, from the correct way to harvest, acknowledging and thanking the plant, to ensuring the mauri of the space and materials was upheld.

Nothing was rushed or taken for granted. This was more than just learning a technique; it was about honouring a living relationship with the natural world. Tikanga wasn't something added on, it was woven through every part of the wānanga, reminding us that process and intention are just as important as the final product.

We came away not just with paper and prints, but with a deeper understanding of what it means to work with integrity, respect, and connection.

This ongoing collaboration with Pakohe has been made possible by the Creative New Zealand Development Fund. Thank you CNZ!