Tuwharetoa

Tuwharetoa is a Māori iwi (tribe) of New Zealand, traditionally located in the central North Island around Lake Taupō. Their ancestral lands encompass the lake and its surrounding mountains, including the peaks of Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu, which are tapu (sacred) and hold significant cultural importance. The iwi's origins are traced back to the explorer and ancestor Tuwharetoa, after whom they are named. Tuwharetoa is renowned for its historical prowess in warfare and its deep connection to the natural landscape, particularly the abundant resources of Lake Taupō. The iwi has a rich history of oratory, carving, and a complex social structure. In contemporary times, Tuwharetoa continues to maintain its cultural identity and engage in various economic and social initiatives, with a focus on preserving their heritage and managing their ancestral territories. The iwi plays an active role in regional and national Māori affairs.