This episode is with Matua Wiremu Wharepapa, also known as Wongi, pou for Raukūmara Pae Maunga, a kaupapa focused on restoring the wellbeing of one of Aotearoa’s largest forests.

Born on the “dirt floor” and raised in Te Kaha, Wongi’s upbringing has shaped deeply who he is and the work he does today. He lived with the seasons, guided by the knowledge passed down from his parents, who lived sustainably with the environment around them.

We talk about his childhood, the troubled years that shaped him, the purpose and impact of Raukūmara Pae Maunga, and the ecosystems within the ngāhere. Wongie also shares his perspective on dropping 1080, men’s mental health, and the look his pāpā gave him that shifted everything.

This kōrero is one of grounding and reconnection — reminding us that healing the land and healing ourselves are deeply intertwined 🌿

We dive into:

✨ Growing up on the dirt floor in Te Kaha
✨ The lessons of living with the land and seasons
✨ Troubled years and turning points
✨ The kaupapa and impact of Raukūmara Pae Maunga
✨ Ecosystems within the ngāhere
✨ Dropping 1080 and environmental balance
✨ Men’s mental health and personal healing
✨ The look from his pāpā that changed everything

🔗 Learn more about Raukūmara Pae Maunga: https://www.raukumara.org.nz/
🔗 Join Seeds of Self: https://www.skool.com/seeds-of-self