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Download AudioThree generations of wāhine from one whānau have received their mokopapa together at Rāpaki Marae in Lyttelton.
Jeni-Leigh Walker says it was incredible to go through the experience with her aunts Herena Stone, Mate Stone, and Rita Stone-Pene and her daughter Kura Turuwhenua.
She says having it done within the whare tīpuna Wheke reaffirmed her sense of belonging.
“I just felt like it was part of something bigger than I’ve known and I’ve always known this is our home, this is where we are from, this is where we have been for generations and generations. Even before I looked at myself I sort of knew we’re here now,” she says.
Jeni-Leigh Walker says while she could find no moko kaue within her Kai Tahu and Kati Mamoe lines, they had been worn by Ngāti Kahungunu and Ngāti Porou ancestors.
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