The karanga rang out across Whakaraupo. The day started off with a pōwhiri to welcome Tā Moko Artist, Tā Derek Lardell and his whānau from Tairawhiti. It was a beautiful day. The sun was shining and the marae was soon full of waiata, laughter and whānau who came from near and far  - from as far away as Invercargill, Wellington, Hawkes Bay, Bay of Plenty and Gisborne to share this day. 

The morning started with the youngest of the four wāhine, Koka Hera.

The process took around an hour each. An hour filled with waiata,  aroha and joy as everyone celebrated this significant occasion. Hakui Rangimarie was next to get her Moko kauae.

followed by her tuākana, Hākui Ripeka.

 The last of the wāhine to get her kauae was our Taua Reihana (Doe) who also this week celebrated her 86th birthday.

The mokopapa was followed with a beautiful kai and lots of whakawhanaungatanga. This mokopapa was very significant to our whānau. Ka rawe to our wāhine for standing strong in being Māori and truly embodying Tū ki te ao, tau ana! 

And photo cred to our very own Matangi who spent the day at the pā taking some amazing photos. Ka mau te wehi! Te whānau Parata want to express their sincere thanks to all those that came to share, cook, sing, haka, mirimiri and tautoko on their special day.