Rongoā Māori Workshops 2026 | Titoki Education

Titoki Education is offering a series of Rongoā Māori workshops in 2026, supporting learners to deepen their understanding of traditional Māori knowledge related to healing, plant use, and care for the ngahere. These workshops are grounded in tikanga, place-based learning, and experiential engagement with the natural environment.

The programme is structured as a progressive learning journey, with four workshops (Rongoā 1–4) that build knowledge and capability over time. Participants are guided through plant identification, tikanga for harvesting, preparation and use of rongoā, and the responsibilities that come with holding and applying this knowledge.

The workshops are faciliated by Donna Kerridge and Bay of Plenty local Rob McGowan, who are also part of the Tīwaiwaka movement.

Kawakawa leaves. Images supplied; © Lian Soh.

Due to high demand, places are not confirmed until course fees are received. All prices include GST. Workshops are generally not catered unless stated, and accommodation availability varies by location.

Rongoā 1 – Introduction to Rongoā Māori

Rongoā 1 marks the beginning of the learning journey. It introduces participants to the foundations of rongoā Māori, including the tikanga involved in learning and practising rongoā. The workshop focuses on developing familiarity with the ngahere, identifying plants and trees, and understanding appropriate harvesting practices.

Participants are also introduced to both traditional and contemporary tools and techniques that support learning, memory, and practical application. No prior knowledge or te reo Māori experience is required.

Tauranga workshops

• Option 1: Saturday 14 & Sunday 15 February 2026

• Option 2: Saturday 28 February & Sunday 1 March 2026

• Option 3: Saturday 29 & Sunday 30 August 2026

• Option 4: Saturday 12 & Sunday 13 September 2026

• Time: 9.00am–4.00pm both days

• Tutor: Rob McGowan

• Venue: Aongatete Lodge, Katikati (Bay of Plenty)

• Fee: $260 (incl. GST)

• Accommodation: Saturday night available at no cost (not catered)

• Optional Friday night accommodation: $60 per person

Auckland workshops

• Dates: TBC

• Time: 9.30am–4.00pm both days

• Tutor: Donna Kerridge

• Venue: Arataki Visitor Centre, Auckland

• Fee: $260

    Rongoā 2 – Harvesting, Preparation, and Care of the Ngahere

Rongoā 2 builds on the foundations established in Rongoā 1. Participants extend their knowledge of tikanga and plant identification, with a stronger focus on harvesting, preparation, and use of rongoā, alongside the care of the ngahere to ensure ongoing availability of plant resources.

Completion of Rongoā 1 (or an equivalent level of knowledge) is required.

Tauranga workshops

• Option 1: Saturday 18 & Sunday 19 April 2026

• Option 2: Saturday 17 & Sunday 18 October 2026

• Time: 9.30am Saturday – 4.30pm Sunday

• Tutors: Rob McGowan / Donna Kerridge

• Venue: Waitaia Lodge, Lower Kaimai, Tauranga

• Fee: $420 (includes full catering and Saturday night accommodation)

    Rongoā 3 – Advanced Practice and Ecosystem Diversity

Rongoā 3 further deepens participant knowledge, continuing work on tikanga, plant identification, harvesting, and preparation. This workshop is held on the west coast, providing opportunities to engage with different plant species and ecosystems.

Completion of Rongoā 2 (or equivalent) is required.

Kawhia workshops

• Option 1: May 2026 (dates TBC)

• Option 2: November 2026 (dates TBC)

• Time: 9.30am Saturday – 4.30pm Sunday

• Tutor: Rob McGowan

• Venue: Te Kauri Lodge, Kawhia

• Fee: $420 (includes catering from Saturday morning and Saturday night accommodation)

• Optional Friday night accommodation: $60 per person

    Rongoā 4 – Medicine Manufacture

Rongoā 4 focuses on the manufacture of rongoā medicines for use with whānau and close communities. This interactive workshop revisits core principles of rongoā Māori and explores ethical considerations, safety, and responsibility when working with medicinal knowledge.

Participants learn about harvesting practices, storage, preparation, and the manufacture of ointments, balms, creams, infusions, and decoctions. The workshop also introduces other applications such as poultices, compresses, syrups, and plasters.

This workshop is limited to 15 participants. Completion of Rongoā 2 or an equivalent level of knowledge is required.

Northland workshops

• Dates: TBC

• Time: 9.30am–4.00pm both days

• Tutor: Donna Kerridge

• Venue: Oakura, Northland

• Fee: $460 (includes materials and lunch both days)

For more information or to register, contact the workshop organisers directly.

Learn More | Register

Ngā mihi

Bay Science would like to warmly acknowledge Karen Tindall from Titoki Education for granting permission to share these rongoā Māori workshop details with our kaiako readers. We also thank Rob McGowan and Donna Kerridge for their continued leadership in this kaupapa.