Here at One Network Wellington Live, we’re excited to bring you a fresh update from our city’s heart. Te Awe Library, located at 29 Brandon Street in Wellington’s busy CBD, has launched a new way to organise its mātauranga Māori collection. This innovative shelving system, based on Māori deities, is now being trialled, and it’s catching the eye of locals and visitors alike. Instead of sticking to old methods, the library is weaving Māori culture and stories into how over 1,200 items are arranged. It’s a big move, and we’re here to share it all in simple, easy words.

The idea sprang from a need to honour Māori knowledge, known as mātauranga Māori. For years, libraries have relied on the Dewey Decimal system to sort books. But that setup often clashes with indigenous ways of seeing the world. So, the team at Te Awe chose a different path. They turned to Māori creation stories, where gods like Tāne, Rongo, and Tangaroa shine. These deities stand for key parts of life, like forests, food, and the sea. Now, they guide how the library’s Māori books and resources find their place on the shelves.

Picture this: you stroll into Te Awe and spot books on plants or trees grouped under Tāne, the forest god. Fancy something about fishing or the ocean? Those sit with Tangaroa, the sea deity. Meanwhile, works on peace or cultivated food link to Rongo. This approach clicks for anyone who knows Māori traditions. It connects books to the natural and spiritual world in a lively way. Plus, it’s a chance to pick up a bit about these gods while you browse.

The trial started recently, focusing on the mātauranga Māori section at Te Awe Library. This isn’t just a small corner either. With over 1,200 items, it covers Māori history, language, and wisdom. By sorting them this way, the library aims to make the collection easier to navigate for those tied to Māori culture. At the same time, it welcomes everyone else to explore these ideas differently. The staff have poured effort into this, and they’re keen to hear what people think.

Why shake things up now? Wellington thrives on fresh ideas, and libraries here are more than book hubs; they’re community spaces where culture grows. Te Awe, smack in the CBD, sees heaps of foot traffic daily. Adding a Māori-inspired system suits a city that cherishes diversity. Besides, Māori knowledge shapes New Zealand’s identity. Giving it a proper stage in the library feels right and timely.

This didn’t happen overnight. Before the trial, the team worked with mana whenua—local Māori—and mātauranga Māori experts. They wanted to respect traditions and get it spot-on. These deities aren’t just labels; they hold deep meaning. Messing up could miss the mark or upset folks. Thankfully, early reactions are good. Many see this as a nod to Māori thinking in everyday places like libraries.

Sure, not everyone will love it straight off. Some might find it odd at first, especially if they’re used to numbers and standard setups. To smooth the way, the library added clear signs and guides. Staff are ready to explain it too. They reckon most will get the hang of it fast. And for those new to Māori deities? It’s a fun way to learn while picking a book.

This system isn’t fixed yet. As a trial, it’s open to change based on what people say. The library wants feedback from anyone using the mātauranga Māori section. Do the categories work? Can you find what you need? These questions count, and the team is all ears. If it goes well, this could be the first of its kind for Wellington City Libraries. It might even spread to other branches or inspire libraries nationwide.

This ties neatly into Wellington’s story. Our city boasts a rich Māori heritage, with iwi like Te Āti Awa shaping its past and present. Reflecting that in the library strengthens those ties. It’s a small yet powerful way to keep Māori culture thriving. Plus, it matches efforts across New Zealand to blend te reo Māori and tikanga into public life. From schools to signs, we see more of this, and Te Awe is jumping in.

Locals feel the pride already. Māori residents say it’s great to see their culture upfront. One visitor shared it’s like the library finally speaks their language. Others, including non-Māori, love the creativity. They reckon it makes the space more unique. In a city famed for its quirky vibe, that’s a bonus.

There’s a practical perk too. Sorting books by deity themes could simplify research. Studying Māori ecology? Head to Tāne’s spot. Want traditional food insights? Rongo has you covered. It’s less about flipping through catalogues and more about following a story. That might draw in students, teachers, or anyone eager to explore Māori wisdom.

Challenges exist, of course. Libraries share systems nationwide, so if Te Awe commits fully, it’ll need to sync with those standards. That’s doable, though. Tech can help, and the team is planning ahead. For now, they’re testing it locally to see if it sticks.

The timing hits the mark. Today, April 08, 2025, we’re in a time when cultural respect shines. People crave spaces that mirror their roots. Te Awe’s trial nails that. It’s not just books; it’s belonging. In a bustling city like Wellington, that counts for heaps.

What’s next? The trial runs a while, giving everyone a say. If it takes off, more libraries might follow. Picture Māori-inspired shelving popping up across New Zealand. It could rethink how we view libraries. For now, Te Awe holds the spotlight. Staff are hopeful, and the community’s buzzing to try it.

At One Network Wellington Live, we think this story’s a keeper. It mixes old wisdom with new flair, right here in our city. Whether you love books, culture, or just a good idea, Te Awe’s system brings something fresh. Next time you’re near 29 Brandon Street, pop in. Browse, grab a book, and see how Māori deities light up the shelves. Wellington always surprises, and this is one more reason to adore it.

In a nutshell, this trial blends tradition with innovation. It celebrates Māori culture, boosts the library’s warmth, and keeps Wellington lively. We’ll update you as it unfolds. For now, visit Te Awe and dive in. You might snag a book—and a tale—you didn’t see coming.