Discover the Right Way to Craft Your Pepeha​

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Toko and His Pepeha Troubles is a one-of-a-kind book that guides readers through the rich world of tikanga Māori by exploring the significance of the pēpeha whakatakoto (structured pepeha) — a unique way of introducing oneself in Māori culture. This engaging story makes a vital distinction between the pēpeha of Tāngata Whenua (the Indigenous people of Aotearoa) and Tāngata Tiriti (non-Māori living in New Zealand under the Treaty of Waitangi).

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Many resources today offer a one-size-fits-all approach to pēpeha, encouraging Tāngata Tiriti to simply follow the format of Tāngata Whenua. This book challenges that approach, offering guidance on how Tāngata Tiriti can create meaningful, respectful pēpeha that honour their own ancestral journeys while recognising the special connection Tāngata Whenua have to the land. Pēpeha urutau are adapted pēpeha for non-Māori whereas pēpeha Māori are the original pēpeha of Tāngata Whenua.

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Through Toko's relatable struggles and discoveries, readers will:

• Understand the cultural depth of pēpeha in te ao Māori.

• Learn how to craft your pepeha that reflects your identity—whether you are Tangata Whenua or Tangata Tiriti.

• Appreciate the importance of respecting Māori customs and traditions.

 

Perfect for schools, teachers, parents, families, whānau, institutions, charities, government organisations, international visitors, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Māori culture. Toko and His Pepeha Troubles is an essential resource for learning how to introduce yourself in a way that is authentic, appropriate, and culturally grounded.