National Geographic Society

The pre-conference Maori cultural experience set the context for what was to become a rich, expansive gathering of amazing individuals, knowledge, ideas and networks. The conference opened Day 1 with a traditional Maori welcome (Powhiri) where the chosen leader of our delegation accepted our host's offer of welcome into their community. After a refreshing morning tea, we were treated to a scintillating performance by Moana & The Tribe.
The delightfully engaging Julian Wilcox, one of Maori Television's most familiar faces, set an upbeat and charming tone as the Master of Ceremonies, individually welcoming the delegation in the official languages of each of the represented countries. When he came to the United States, he veered into the political arena stating, "Obama 2008." Inspirational Maori civil rights advocate Dr. Huirangi Waikerepuru provided the Patron's welcome address making a call to the importance of language preservation and education. Dr. Waikerepuru's tireless efforts have had a tremendous impact towards the positive developments of the revitalization of Maori culture in New Zealand. It is interesting to note that following every keynote address, the recognized conference elders who were seated onstage in a special dedicated section, honored each speaker by leading the delegation in a traditional song. A few other interesting tidbits gathered from the morning's speakers which also included Gary Muriwai, Chairman, Maori Television and the Hon. Dr. Michael Cullen, Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand: There are over 370 million recognized indigenous peoples across the globe spread over 70 countries; the genesis of Maori Television is a result of government support in recognition of the dangerous 20th century decline of Maori language and culture; revitalization efforts are making a direct impact as there are currently more speakers of Maori today than 200 years ago; government support is also based on the protection and promotion of Indigenous culture to showcase the uniqueness of New Zealand as a nation. Following in this theme, Chief Judge Joseph Williams delivered a stimulating and metaphorically beautiful keynote address making the call of "Reclaiming the Future." He also stated how Maori language and culture are traditions not just for the Maori, but for all of New Zealand. Speaking directly to the broadcasters, he noted how it is through these mediums, that allows for the conversation of cultural identities to exist on a broad scale.

More to come...

From the moment of our arrival in Auckland, New Zealand for the 1st World Indigenous Television Broadcasting Conference (WITBC 2008), we were immersed into an unforgettable experience of shared cultural brotherhood with all of the indigenous communities represented across the globe as orchestrated by our gracious hosts at Maori TV.

In what was an extraordinary global affair, All Roads delegates, including board member Frank Blythe were the only professional attendees on hand from the continental U.S. out of 400 registered delegates, from over 32 countries. To set the context, early arriving attendees were treated to a journey into the world of the Maori for a cultural experience that included a visit to a Marae as well as a breath-taking excursion deep into the ngahere. In what was a moving gesture of hospitality, local students from the Marae's kura kaupapa (primary school), and whare kura (secondary school) actually came in to welcome us with beautiful renderings of traditional songs and powerful hakas, on what was their Easter holiday.

More to come...