This is the beginning of the journey. It introduces participants to the world of rongoa Maori, and the tikanga involved in learning rongoa.

It focuses on getting to know the ngahere (the bush), how to identify the plants and trees that grow there, and the tikanga (traditional practices) that must be followed in harvesting from the ngahere for rongoa.

It also puts participants in touch with resources and techniques, both traditional and current, to help them retain what they are learning, and to make use of it in a practical way.

This workshop follows on from Rongoa 1 as is a pre-requisite for undertaking Rongoa 4 (Medicine Manufacture).

It will not only continue the development of knowledge around tikanga and plant identification, but will focus on harvesting and preparation of rongoa and their uses, and care of the ngahere (bush) to ensure rongoa continues to be available.

This workshop follows on from Rongoa 2 and will further develop knowledge around tikanga and plant identification, but will focus on harvesting and preparation of rongoa and their uses, and care of the ngahere (bush) to ensure rongoa continues to be available.

This workshop is held on the west coast to allow participants to experience a different range of plants and eco-systems.

This workshop demonstrates the making of rongoa for use with friends and family.

The workshop will cover: a review of the principles of rongoa Maori; do’s and don’ts and why of harvesting; storage and manufacturing; ethics; using rakau for rongoa and kai; making ointments, balms, creams, infusions, and decoctions based on rongoa principles; introduction to other rongoa applications including poultices, compresses, syrups, plasters etc; reflections on our responsibilities; care of the knowledge and safety.

This is an interactive weekend that encourages student participation and sharing of knowledge and experiences. The prerequisite for enrolment is having completed at least Rongoa Maori 1. Workshop is limited to 15 participants.