Tūrangawaewae – a place to stand

Tūrangawaewae is one of the most well-known and powerful Māori concepts. It literally means standing place (tūranga) and feet (waewae); and is often translated as ‘a place to stand’.

Tūrangawaewae are places where we feel empowered and connected. They are our foundation, our place in the world, our home.

Connection to place is fundamental to Māori identity. It shapes our thinking, our way of being, our priorities and values. As a Māori-owned business, we believe the landscape shapes us – as much as we shape it. Our interaction with nature comes from a position of deep respect for all animals and plants, mountains and rivers, valleys and oceans of our planet.

Here at Tohu, this is the hallmark of our wisdom. We listen to the land, respond to its needs, nurture and respect it. At the end of every season we are rewarded with a bounty of rich, ripe, flavourful fruit. Fruit that sustains our business and is enjoyed by people like you all over the world.

People reflect the places they come from – the light, the earth, the waters of our homeland. Maori may have a name for it, but this is a universal concept.

Our Tūrangawaewae is in Te Tauihu, at the top of New Zealand’s South Island.  The place where we stand tallest. We migrated to these lands centuries ago and been here now for many generations. Our families, like our vineyards, are now spread right across Te Tauihu.  We like to think our deep, rich history and connection to this land is reflected in the depth and flavour of our wines.

Where is your Tūrangawaewae? When you close your eyes, is there a special place that comes to mind? What makes it special to you? We’d love to hear your stories of Tūrangawaewae. Share in the comments below or write to us.