Te Tiriti o Waitangi: Rotorua Library hosts Te Tiriti kōrero with author Roimata Smail

Author Roimata Smail.

The bestselling author of Understanding Te Tiriti – A Handbook of Facts About Te Tiriti will speak at the Rotorua Library today.

Roimata Smail has given her “engaging and informative” talks to audiences across the country, from Auckland Central Library to the National Library in Wellington and community libraries in between, Smail said in a statement today.

She is bringing her “powerful kōrero” to Rotorua offering a chance for the community to gain a deeper understanding of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

“I’m excited to be coming to Rotorua Library - think of it as a one-hour speed date on the basic facts of Te Tiriti,” Smail said.

“Every time I visit a library; I see how hungry people are for knowledge. There are so many who never had the chance to learn the basics about Te Tiriti, and it’s incredible to see their excitement when they finally do.

“It’s all about making the facts accessible – without judgment, without spin – just the truth.”

Smail said her “little 30-page book that’s the size of an old A5 school journal was written to empower readers with knowledge, not to tell them what to think”.

“I’m not here to convince anyone of anything; I just want to provide a resource for those who are curious and eager to learn. Libraries are the perfect place for that – open, accessible, and welcoming to all.”

Te Aka Mauri director Julianne Wilkinson said Rotorua Library at Te Aka Mauri was proud to provide a platform as part of Rotorua Library’s offerings for Waitangi Day.

“Te Tiriti and the principles need not be complex, and we welcome our community no matter where they are on their learning journey.”

Rotorua also holds special significance for Smail, whose whānau have strong ties to the region.

“I’ve got family in the Rotorua Lakes District who have been incredibly supportive, and I have so many fond memories of winter holidays here with my parents. It’s a place close to my heart, and I can’t wait to connect with the locals.”

The statement said attendees could expect an engaging session that shed light on the facts of Te Tiriti, the historical context, and what it meant for Aotearoa today.

The author’s previous talks have been described as empowering and thought-provoking, offering Kiwis a chance to gain clarity in a time when misinformation is widespread.

Event Details:

• Rotorua Library

• January 29 at 5.30pm

• Free entry – All welcome