The people of Rongomaiwahine are descended from a common ancestor, Rongomaiwahine. She was descended from Ruawharo, the tohunga (navigator) of the Tākitimuwaka (Māori migration canoe), and Popoto, the commander of the Kurahaupō waka.
In Māori tradition, Rongomaiwahine was known to have had two husbands: Tamatakutai and Kahungunu. With Tamatakutai, she bore two daughters, Rapuaiterangi and Hinerauiri. With Kahungunu (well known as the eponymous ancestor of Ngāti Kahungunu) she had five children: Kahukuranui, Rongomaipapa, Tamateakota, Mahakinui and Tauheikuri.[5]
Historically, Rongomaiwahine have operated successful whaling stations. Today, fishing remains an important industry, along with the operation of sheep and cattle stations. Rongomaiwahine Iwi Trust (RIT) is the administrative body of the iwi.[2][4]
Whaanga, Mere (26 September 2006). "Ngāti Rongomaiwahine". Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand. Archived from the original on 19 August 2007. Retrieved 29 June 2007.