Significant Trust Horizon grant secures upgrade of Waiaua Marae wharekai

Trust Horizon has recently approved a $281,161 grant to future-proof the kitchen facilities at Waiaua Marae as part of the marae’s Development Plan.

The wharekai, ‘Te Puritanga’, was erected in 1991. Now at 31 years of age, the kitchen needs refurbishing and extending to cater for the increasing number of whānau and manuhiri attending events at the marae.

“Waiaua Marae is the central gathering place for the Ngāti Patumoana Hapū, a subtribe of the Whakatōhea Iwi,” says Marsh Moore, Waiaua Marae Projects Manager. “The facilities provide the hapū a location to grow their culture, language and identity, and is a common gathering place for whānau for tangihanga, hui, celebrations, and many other events.”

According to Moore, the wharekai extension and upgrade is the number one priority for the ongoing Marae Development Plan. The overall project value, including the wharekai extension, is estimated to be $1.2M and Waiaua Marae are seeking further funding support from other sources.

Te Puritanga’s upgrade will see the existing building extended, with renovations to ensure it is compliant with the New Zealand Building Code and food and hygiene regulations.

Funding from Trust Horizon will go towards upgrading the lighting to energy efficient LED lights; installing an energy efficient air conditioning system and compliant fire alarm system; insulating the space; and purchasing new kitchen appliances that are compliant and energy efficient.

Trust Horizon Trustee and Ōpōtiki local, Kevin Hennessy, says the marae plays a significant role within the Whakatōhea tribal landscape as well as the wider Ōpōtiki community.

“Waiaua Marae is a centre of Māori identity and mātauranga in Ōpōtiki and we are proud to support their mission to provide a safe and healthy environment for the whānau of Ngāti Patumoana, Te Whakatōhea and the Ōpōtiki community to use and enjoy,” says Hennessy. “In addition, the upgrades will result in a more energy efficient facility, which aligns well with the Trust’s aims.”

Moore says Trust Horizon have been supportive of the project since the beginning.

“Trust Horizon was one of the first funders to approach the Waiaua Marae Committee in 2016 to offer assistance. It is great that they are also one of the first to confirm such a substantial amount of financial support to the project, reaching a significant milestone. And for that, we offer our sincere thanks to Trust Horizon for this funding.”

Find out more about Trust Horizon community funding here.