He koha nā te atua – not something to be hidden

The Future We’re Reclaiming 

Mai i Kurawaka envisions a future where ikura is honoured as a sacred gift — not hidden, silenced, or shamed. Rooted in mātauranga Māori, this wānanga creates space for open, respectful kōrero and cultural reconnection.

By learning the origins of menstruation through our whakapapa and sharing knowledge passed down by atua and tūpuna, we challenge colonial narratives and reclaim the life-giving power of ikura.

Through traditional stories, ritual practices, and sustainable modern solutions, Mai i Kurawaka empowers wāhine, tāhine, and whānau with tools to live in alignment with te ao Māori — where menstruation is recognised, discussed, and honoured.

Small Steps That Lead to Big Change

After this wānanga, you’ll be able to:

• Understand the whakapapa and origin stories of ikura in te ao Māori
• Identify how colonisation disrupted menstrual tikanga
• Restore tapu and mana to menstruation
• Practise both traditional and contemporary ikura care
• Use and promote reusable, sustainable period products
  
• Hold safe, supportive kōrero with whānau and communities

Why This Kaupapa Changes Lives

• Reclaims cultural identity and strengthens connection to atua wāhine
• Dismantles menstrual shame and silence
• Encourages sustainable period practices rooted in care for Papatūānuku
• Restores mana and tapu to wāhine and tāhine
• Supports intergenerational knowledge transfer
• Normalises respectful conversations around ikura and hauora

The Wānanga Experience

Delivered as a hands-on, discussion-based workshop, Mai i Kurawaka provides a safe and inclusive space to share experiences, explore mātauranga Māori, and learn about sustainable period options. 

Wānanga can be tailored for schools, marae, community groups, or health providers, and often include kōrero, reflection, and practical demonstrations.

What Gets in the Way – And How We Break Through

Menstruation remains a topic surrounded by shame, silence, or misinformation — especially in environments shaped by colonisation.

Mai i Kurawaka addresses this by creating a mana-enhancing space where mātauranga Māori can be shared openly. This wānanga is accessible, empowering, and suitable for all ages and genders — restoring dignity and connection where it may have been lost.

Take the First Step

Ready to restore the mana of ikura in your whānau, kura, or community?

Mai i Kurawaka is a powerful step in reconnecting with atua, tikanga, and the life-giving power of menstruation. This wānanga invites kōrero, reflection, and change — grounded in whakapapa, guided by mātauranga Māori, and shaped by aroha.

Let’s kōrero about bringing this kaupapa to your community. Get in touch with us.