Te Amorangi - National Māori Academic Excellence Awards
People came from far and wide to gather at Tūrangawaewae Marae in Ngāruawahia on the evening of the 7th March 2008, in honour of those recently conferred Māori Doctorates who have achieved the pinnacle of academic excellence, in their area of expertise.
There were 35 recipients in total who were acknowledged and celebrated at the Te Amorangi National Māori Academic Excellence Awards 2008.
“Ko te Amorangi ki mua ko te hāpai ō ki muri”
This well known Māori proverb and its’ many meanings continued to provide the depth and act as a foundation for the awards. In this instance it highlights the importance of having well equipped leaders to guide and act as a spearhead for and with the support of their families, hapū and iwi.
Every year a lifetime achievement award is awarded in remembrance of the late Māori Queen Dame Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu to honour special individuals who have worked tirelessly for the advancement of Māori in the wider community and beyond. This years’ recipient was the Hon. Koro Wetere from Tainui.
Professor Tuhiwai Linda Smith Pro Vice Chancellor Māori, key host of the event on behalf of the University of Waikato, had this to say when asked about her thoughts on the event and the direction for the awards in years to come;
“I thought the evening was extremely positive and it was good to see academic achievements recognized and honored. I see the awards continuing as a set fixture for the years ahead but would like to see one or two extra awards being made”.
The Te Amorangi National Māori Academic Excellence Awards will remain at Tūrangawaewae Marae for years to come.
* To read this in Māori click here.