Te Papa’s Chief Executive, Dr Seddon Bennington, and Kaihautu (Māori leader), Te Taru White, announced today the appointment of Arapata Hakiwai as Te Papa’s Director of Mātauranga Māori. Mātauranga Māori recognises that taonga (treasures) and collections have special sprirtual and cultural connections with Māori.
Dr Bennington said today that Arapata Hakiwai brings a wealth of experience to this important role.
'Arapata will direct the Māori research, curatorial, and collection management teams within Te Papa and, through his extensive contacts and experience, will strengthen Te Papa’s relationships and collaborative opportunities with iwi (tribal groups), and related organisations,and communities,' said Dr Bennington.
Arapata Hakiwai currently holds the position of Community Partnerships Manager Māori Te Taumaru Herenga-a-iwi within Te Papa’s National Services Te Paerangi, which provides services and advice to museums, iwi, and heritage organisations across New Zealand.
Arapata Hakiwai has extensive museum experience, including over twelve years at Te Papa and the previous National Museum as a Curator and Collection Manager and as Te Papa’s Manager of Bicultural Operations from 1998 to 2001. Arapata Hakiwai has led a number of major projects including the renovation of the Ruatepupuke carved meeting house in the Field Museum, Chicago, Illinois, from 1991 to 1993. He also has significant research and practical experience in the development of tribal museums and cultural centres and taonga-related research. Through his role with National Services Te Paerangi, Arapata Hakiwai has developed extensive networks within museums, iwi, and heritage organisations across New Zealand.
Contact:
Paul Brewer, Director Marketing and Communications, mobile: 021 532 920.