Don Ahipene-marae elder

Tu Tangata, Issue 14, 1 October 1983, Page 62

Don Ahipene-marae elder

A while ago, a bunch of pretty difficult Maori high school kids came to stay on the Awahou Marae, in Rotorua. Marae elder Don Ahipene smiles as he recounts the story. “These were the hard-case eh, and the girls too”. Stuffing food into their pockets at meal time was quickly stopped by Don and his people and replaced with education in marae protocol. By the end of the week the kids, having been treated with consideration and “like human beings”, were thriving on the life.

Don cites this example to back up his belief that the marae plays a big part in bolstering Maori identity and cultural awareness. Performing a spirited powhiri to visitors, the diminutive elder reveals a youthful vitality that belies his years. Later, sitting comfortably in the sun on the maraetea, Don expands on his role as elder for the marae of Ngati Rangiwewehi. A retired carpenter, he and his wife Mei spend their time keeping the marae in order and welcoming visitors, including busloads of schoolchildren from all over New Zealand. For Don, it is important for Maori and Pakeha to get in touch with New Zealand’s indigenous culture. For young Maoris in particular, Don believes there is nothing better than to experience the marae environment here there is support and “a different atmosphere altogether”. Those Maoris

who have lost their cultural link soon gain a pride and identity that comes from knowing their heritage Speaking of problems facing Maoris in society today, Don believes Maoris have to find solutions themselves. He concedes that on this point there are many different opinions, but thinks the best way to solve problems is to “get down to the drawing board and see what can be done”. Don believes the marae is the only place to discuss Maori affairs, as there is always “that air of responsibility... the knowledge you’re being helped along by what your forefathers have done”. While optimistic about the future, Don believes it is up to Maoris to learn their language and culture. He admits that on the road ahead there are plenty of difficulties, but says he can draw on his culture to overcome them. Vern Rice.