Khyla Russell – inaugural professorial address

On Monday 6 August, Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka was extremely privileged to host the inaugural professorial address of our own Professor Khyla Russell. Khyla (Kāti Māmoe, Kāi Tahu, Waitaha, Rapuwai), was appointed full professor at Otago Polytechnic in January this year, recognising her international reputation in indigenous research and leadership.

She holds the role of kaitohutohu at the polytechnic, overseeing the incorporation of the principles of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the Polytechnic’s Memorandum of Understanding with kā Papatipu Rūnaka.

More than 120 people attended the occasion, which began with the pōwhiri at 4.30pm. Speakers included Matapura Ellison and Mark Brunton for Te Tai Araiteuru, Phil Ker and Richard Kerr-Bell from the Otago Polytechnic. Suzanne Ellison introduced Prof. Russell to the audience, and she gave an insightful and humorous account of the interesting (and unconventional) life she has led, and how that life has influenced thinking.

A team of people helped with all aspects of the evening, in particular, her daughter Justine Camp, who worked tirelessly in the build-up to the hui to ensure all went according to plan.

After the address the congregation were treated to a truly elaborate hākari. Ron Bull, Aroha Ellison, and a large number of helpers worked for days leading up to the hui to prepare the kai. The hākari included such delicacies as hapuka, salmon and pāua, as well as Ron’s chicken liver and tītī pate and Aroha’s specialty, cockle fritters.

It was a wonderful celebration of Khyla’s achievements.

Professor Khyla Russell is joined by her daughter Justine and mokopuna Takiwai, along with other family members and extended whānau for the waiata kīnaki that followed her address.

Marae carpark upgrade

We are pleased to report the new marae carpark is finally complete. The rather imposing retaining wall is in place and the asphalt is down. You may recall that the carpark used to be above the marae, but as you can see, it’s now on the same level, so access is much improved!

The new carpark and retaining wall at Puketeraki Marae, Karitāne.

Ngāi Tahu Hui-a-Iwi update

As mentioned in the June/July edition of Te Pānui Rūnaka, the Rūnaka is keen to travel to Lincoln in Christchurch as a rōpū. If you would like to go to this hui from Dunedin with us, it’s time to start making plans. Please contact us if you want is to share the experience, so that we can begin our preparations for accommodation, transport, numbers and timing. We are really looking forward to all the hui has to offer.
Email; [email protected] or call (03) 465 7300.