"Death Through the Māori Lens" – A Talk with Erihapeti McPherson

"Death Through the Māori Lens" – A Talk with Māori teacher, healer and artist Erihapeti McPherson

In the Library!

Navigating death and dying has become increasingly complex. Natural life cycles are often overshadowed by assimilation, or rejected by authoritarian structures and corporate interests that remove control from whanau (families). Erihapeti McPherson, wahine Maori (Kai Tahu me Kati Mamoe) is a healer who has been working alongside the dying for almost three decades. Experienced in all aspects of death walking—from rituals for the dying, to waka (coffin) building, to delivering tupapaku (the deceased) for cremation— she keeps the ancient ways. In Te Ao Māori (the Māori world), death is viewed as a natural part of life. Join us as Erihapeti shares her journey of reinstating these indigenous practices, one death at a time.

Bio:

Erihapeti “Eri” is a Māori teacher, healer and artist from Aotearoa, New Zealand. As a kaitiaki tohorā (keeper of whales) and death walker of her rohe (area and community), she brings a lifetime of practical wisdom and rituals to share. Her fine art practice spans over three decades, and her work is featured in global exhibitions. She currently specializes in intricate works on paper and sacred jewelry, where she draws inspiration from her Māori heritage and spiritual traditions.

Erihapeti is of Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe and Kotimana descent. She lives in Golden Bay, Te Tau Ihu, and has a strong relationship with the local hapū. She is a prolific artist in many mediums. She lets herself be guided by dreams and visions.

Eri offers a unique service as a Spiritual and Cultural Protection Agent. By utilising the tools of ritual, Karakia and vibrational medicines alongside the guidance of my spiritual allies, she tailors services to accommodate a diverse range of needs.

She works alongside individuals and groups, in a collaborative way, to offer spiritual protection and sacred spaces for endeavours including, rites of passage from birth to farewells and everything in between. She works with many artists, families and institutions to ensure spiritual hygiene is maintained and that tikanga (the way) is upheld.

Special Thanks to: Meg Buzzi.

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