This section acknowledges those who have passed away. It's an important part of the mihi, especially in gatherings where whānau or community members have experienced loss.
Every culture has ways of grieving, remembering and showing respect for those who have passed and are no longer with us. It is important to acknowledge and greet the deceased, and this can often be done collectively, or individuals might be mentioned.
Think about how your culture and whānau honour loved ones who have passed. How do you keep their memory and spirit alive?
Pick Your Line(s)
Beginner Options (basic structure)
- Ki ngā mate, haere, haere, haere atu rā.
- Ki ngā tini aitua, moe mai, moe mai, moe mai rā.
- Kia koutou kua huri tuara atu, moe mai rā.
Intermediate Options (more specific or expanded)
- Ki ngā mate, haere, haere atu rā, moe mai rā ki te kainga tūturu.
- Kia koutou kua whakatauria ia mātou te iwi o ________ nei rā, a reo miha kia koutou.
- Ki ngā hunga mate, moe mai rā ki ngā ringa kaha o tō tātou matua nui i te rangi.
Decide on your level and now rehearse with your kaiako, paying special attention to both pronunciation and the rhythm.
Beginner Options (basic structure)
- Ki ngā mate, haere, haere, haere atu rā.
- Ki ngā tini aitua, moe mai, moe mai, moe mai rā.
- Kia koutou kua huri tuara atu, moe mai rā.
Intermediate Options (more specific or expanded)
- Ki ngā mate, haere, haere atu rā, moe mai rā ki te kainga tūturu.
- Kia koutou kua whakatauria ia mātou te iwi o ________ nei rā, a reo miha kia koutou.
- Ki ngā hunga mate, moe mai rā ki ngā ringa kaha o tō tātou matua nui i te rangi.
You have now covered your Whakatūwhera/Tauparapara – Opening Greeting and have also acknowledged Ngā mate.
Go back over the last two lessons and start reciting them together so you have a sense of the order and the flow.