Pepeha: Introducing Yourself in Māori

Learning to share who we are Connecting to place and whānau Respecting tikanga Māori

What is a Pepeha?

How do you introduce yourself to new people? What information do you share about yourself? Why might it be important to know where someone comes from?

Understanding Pepeha

A traditional way of introducing yourself in Māori culture Connects you to your ancestors (tūpuna) Links you to important places like mountains (maunga) and rivers (awa) Shows respect when visiting a marae Helps people understand who you are and where you belong

Traditional Māori Pepeha Structure

Let's Practice Te Reo Māori

Listen and repeat each phrase Ko [mountain] taku maunga Ko [river] taku awa Nō [place] ōku tūpuna Ko [place] taku kāinga Ko [name] tōku ingoa

Traditional vs Tauiwi Pepeha

{"left":"Uses iwi (tribe) and hapū connections\nReferences ancestral mountains and rivers\nConnects to whakapapa (genealogy)\nSpoken by Māori people with tribal connections","right":"Adapted for non-Māori New Zealanders\nUses places of family origin or significance\nShows respect for Māori culture\nAllows everyone to participate respectfully"}

Create Your Own Pepeha

Fill in your pepeha template Choose places that are important to you Think about where your family comes from Practice saying it out loud Remember to speak clearly and with respect

Why Pepeha Matters

'Pepeha helps us understand who we are and where we belong. It connects us to our land and our people, showing respect for Māori culture and tikanga.'