Te Papa’s work with iwi (tribes) Te mahi a Te Papa me ngā iwi

Learn about the main ways Te Papa works with tribal groups in New Zealand.

Te Papa is a bicultural institution. We work with iwi in various ways, with major focuses on the following areas.

National Services Te Paerangi (NSTP)

NSTP aims to strengthen the museum sector by providing practical and strategic help to museums, galleries, and iwi throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. We do this through training, resources, funding grants, advice, and collaborative opportunities including hui.

Read more about National Services Te Paerangi

Iwi Exhibition Programme

The Iwi Exhibition Programme gives iwi the chance to present their taonga and stories in a national forum. The programme is an important expression of mana taonga – the role of communities in the understanding and care of collections. This concept underpins Te Papa’s guardianship of all taonga.

Iwi in residence

Each iwi works collaboratively with Te Papa to create an exhibition. During the exhibition’s run, kaumātua (elders) reside at Te Papa and carry out a range of roles, including ceremonial duties on Te Marae.

Iwi exhibitions at Te Papa

Karanga Aotearoa Repatriation Programme

The Karanga Aotearoa Repatriation Programme aims to repatriate kōiwi tangata Māori (Māori skeletal remains) and kōimi tangata (Moriori skeletal remains) from overseas institutions to relevant New Zealand iwi. Te Papa performs this work on behalf of the New Zealand Government. The programme relies on iwi involvement and support throughout.

Read about the Karanga Aotearoa Repatriation Programme