Welcome!
This page has been put together to help inform and support as you spend time in Ōtautahi | Christchurch at CORO 2025.
Ōtautahi is the Māori name for Christchurch and means “the place of Tautahi”, named after a Ngāi Tahu chief who once lived near the Ōtākaro (Avon River). Before European settlers arrived, the area was a rich food-gathering place for local iwi, especially Ngāi Tahu, who travelled seasonally through the Canterbury plains and along the coast. European settlement began in the 1840s, and Christchurch became New Zealand’s first official city in 1856.
It was designed as a model English settlement, with strong Anglican roots, which is why you'll see Gothic-style architecture in the city centre. In more recent history, Christchurch is known for its resilience following the devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, which reshaped the city and led to a major rebuild. Today, it’s a vibrant and creative place, home to street art, innovation, green spaces, and a growing celebration of Māori culture and identity.
Here in Ōtautahi | Christchurch, we’re on the ancestral land of Ngāi Tahu, specifically Te Ngāi Tūāhuriri Rūnanga, the local iwi (tribe). As part of honouring this connection, the Law Society has included Māori culture and tikanga (customs) in the conference. You may see or hear elements like a mihi whakatau (welcome), karakia (prayer or blessing), and waiata (song). These are important cultural practices that reflect manaakitanga - hospitality, respect, and care for everyone present.
By including iwi in opening the conference, we acknowledge the mana whenua (people of the land) and help create a space that respects Aotearoa’s unique cultural identity. Your role as an attendee? Simply show openness, listen with respect, and enjoy the richness that these traditions bring.
Useful concepts and words
At the conference you'll likely hear some te reo Māori terms and take part in some Māori customs. Here's a quick guide to help you understand the key words and cultural practices, so you can feel more comfortable, show respect, and fully enjoy the experience.
Karakia: Opening or Closing Prayer/Incantation
A karakia is often used to open or close formal gatherings. It’s a way of setting the tone, calling on spiritual guidance, and showing respect. It might be religious, spiritual, or more about well-being and focus. Think of it like a moment to centre everyone, Māori-style. You may also hear a karakia kia before food, which is a blessing or grace before people eat.
Mihi Whakatau: Informal Welcome
A mihi whakatau is a welcoming ceremony, usually for visitors or guests at an event. It includes speeches (mihi), and often a waiata (song) to support the speaker. You'll usually just sit, listen, and enjoy the manaakitanga (hospitality). You might be expected to stand and respond if you're part of a visiting group, but not at this conference.
Iwi: Tribe
An iwi is a Māori tribe or large kinship group, made up of people who share a common ancestor. Iwi play an important role in preserving Māori culture, caring for land and resources, and representing their people in social, political, and cultural matters.
Kaumātua: Elder or Respected Leader
A kaumātua is a respected elder, usually someone with deep knowledge of tikanga (customs) and whakapapa (genealogy). They often lead karakia, give speeches, or support cultural practices during events. They carry wisdom and are often seen as the cultural guardians of the group.
Kuia: Female Elder
The kuia is the female counterpart to the kaumātua, equally respected and often taking a leading role in welcomes, storytelling, and supporting protocol.
Tikanga: Customs / Protocol / Correct Way
Tikanga refers to Māori customs, etiquette, or the "right way" to do things. At a conference, you might hear things like “we’ll follow tikanga for the welcome.” Respecting tikanga is a sign of cultural understanding and goodwill.
Waiata: Song
Songs are often sung after speeches or as part of ceremonies. Don’t worry if you don’t know the words—just listen and enjoy. Sometimes lyrics will be provided if you’re invited to join in.
Manaakitanga: Hospitality / Care for Others
This is the idea of showing generosity, kindness, and respect to guests. A cornerstone of Māori and wider Kiwi culture, you’ll definitely feel it at a well-hosted event.
Kia ora: Hello / Thank You / Yes / Cool!
One of the most commonly used Māori phrases in everyday Kiwi life. Kia ora can mean hi, thanks, cheers, or even just a warm affirmative. You'll hear it everywhere. It’s friendly and versatile, please feel free to use it!
Useful websites
The Māori dictionary - if you hear a word you aren’t sure of, find out how to pronounce it and what it means here: Te Aka Māori Dictionary
Christchurch – to find out more about the history of this area have a look here: Early Christchurch – a brief history | Christchurch City Libraries Ngā Kete Wānanga o Ōtautahi
Things to do – while in the city you might have time to get out and about, find out some great things to do here: Things to See & Do in Christchurch & Canterbury | ChristchurchNZ.com.