Rakatahi of Aukaha
In the first of our video series featuring the rakatahi who work at Aukaha, Makareta Wesley-Evans tells us about her mahi with Mana Taiao and how her manawhenua lens is adding value to the work of the whole team.
Makareta Wesley-Evans
“We can’t replace the land to what it used to be hundreds of years ago, so the way to do it is trying to preserve what we have now.”
Raised and nurtured on her ancestral pā at Ōtākou, Makareta Wesley-Evans is fueled by her passion and deep connection to her tūrakawaewae. After starting at Aukaha in 2022, she has found a place in our Mana Taiao team, helping to strengthen their commitment to reflect local hapū aspirations in planning processes and decisions. In her role as a consent officer, Makareta brings a manawhenua lens and a deep understanding of Kāi Tahu values to her mahi, adding value to the work of the whole team.
Aukaha is driven by the aspirations and values of manawhenua to provide pathways for the new generation of local rūnaka talent, enabling them to thrive and achieve success in their career paths.
Watch Makareta’s story, as she tells us how she found inspiration to carry on the legacy of her whānau, working for the betterment of her people and whenua.
Our Stories
A modern office, a historic location.
Rakatahi of Aukaha: Korako Edwards
Whare Ora – preparing for Makariri
Paving the way for others – Mana Takata
Decolonising our awa
