The Nga Taniwha o Murihiku mau rākau wānanga was a three-day kaupapa held at O te Ika Rama Marae in Hokonui, attended by 40 participants including rangatahi, pakeke, whānau tautoko, and experienced kaiako from Te Whare Tū Taua. Created in response to local interest, the wānanga offered an immersive space to explore mau rākau techniques, cultural whakapapa, and the wider historical and spiritual context, strengthening both cultural identity and community connection. The weekend began with a pōwhiri and wero, and included a dawn hīkoi to Tuturau Pā, deepening connection to whenua and tīpuna.

Hokonui Hauora Fund supported the kaupapa, which combined physical training, group games, and advanced grading preparation with reflection, kōrero, and mindfulness activities through Te Puna Mahau. Evenings focused on Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Ngāi Tahu history, and connection through karakia, taoka puoro, and group sharing. The wānanga concluded with karakia, poroporoaki, and acknowledgements of gratitude, providing a holistic experience that nurtured agility, resilience, whanaungatanga, and emotional awareness.