Background

The Kahungunu Rongā Rōpū (#KRR) was established 10 June 2010 through a Hui-a-Iwi and ran as an independant organisation made up of Kahungunu Rongoā Practioners.

That same year #KRR decided to become members of the national rongoā body Te Paepae Matua. Elections were held and Kahungunu whānau had chosen Te Maari Joe and Kapu Matiaha on the Board of Te Paepae Matua.

At the request of the whānau, in 2010 #KRR came under the umbrella of Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Inc. and are now known as the Ngāti Kahungunu Rongoā Rōpū (#NKRR).

In 2012 Te Paepae Matua and Ngā Ringa Whakahaere (both national Rongoā bodies) merged to form Te Kāhui Rongoā Trust. #NKRR held elections with Te Maari Joe and Frances Smiler-Edwards were voted to represent Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi on the Te Kahui Rongoā Board - www.rongoamaori.org.nz.

Goals

• Grow, nurture and protect Rongoā Rākau.

• Increase mātauranga, capacity and capabilities of Rongoā.

• Establish a Register of traditional practicing healers within the Ngāti Kahungunu Rohe.

• Protect traditional healers.

• Preserve knowledge.

• Support the Wai 262.