18 January 2006
The Department of Corrections today released to staff it's policy for holding Maori cultural practices on Departmental premises. In releasing the guidelines Chief Executive Barry Matthews praised the sensible and inclusive nature of the policy which he said would protect Maori cultural practices while promoting an environment of inclusiveness.
"The Department's responsiveness to Maori remains a key element in meeting its goal of reducing re-offending. What we in fact found, however, was that the enthusiasm of staff meant that in some cases powhiri were being misused and its tikanga not protected. We have moved to ensure that this doesn’t happen in the future.
"From now on the less formal whakatau will be used when a Maori cultural practice is appropriate in the Department’s welcoming ceremonies. Key features of a whakatau include the same roles for men and women, which will be reflected in the seating arrangements, and the use of languages other than Te Reo Maori if required".
"Powhiri will now be held only in exceptional circumstances and only with my express approval. I will be looking to ensure, amongst other things, that the staff involved are comfortable with what is proposed and that tangata whenua have agreed to the holding of a powhiri. Any powhiri will follow local protocols. Staff will have the choice whether to participate or not in Powhiri. I expect all staff to act with respect whether they participate or not.
"I am confident that the guidelines will address the concerns recently expressed about the different roles men and women can have during events including Maori cultural practices and that the Department can look to the future with confidence in its Maori cultural practices."