"Ko wai au, nō hea au - knowing who we are and where we come from grounds us in belonging."

This project explores how Pūrākau (Ancestral Stories) can support Māori in reconnecting spiritually with their whakapapa and ancestral ties to te taiao (the natural world). It seeks to address the growing disconnection caused by urbanisation and loss of cultural knowledge, while celebrating cultural identity. Through research grounded in kaupapa Māori values and reflection on my personal journey, this project identifies barriers and enablers to cultural belonging. The Tōku Kāinga App creates a safe and accessible space for users to explore their pepeha, and discover the stories of their maunga, awa, and marae. Guided by the principles of whanaungatanga, wairuatanga, and ako, the platform aims to inspire a shared journey of spiritual healing and reconnection - where understanding of place strengthens connection to our whakapapa and Te Ao Māori.