Wharekai renovations set to strengthen Murupara community

Rangitahi Marae’s wharekai is set to receive a facelift thanks to a $257,528 grant from Trust Horizon.

The wharekai ‘Kuranui’ – named after one of the wives of Ngāti Manawa ancestor, Tangiharuru – was erected in 1979. Now at 44 years of age, it is in desperate need of upgrading to cater for the increasing number of whānau and manuhiri attending events at the marae.

As the central gathering place for Ngāti Hui, Rangitahi Marae in Murupara provides the hapū members a location to grow their culture, language, and identity.

“Rangitahi Marae is one of the largest marae in the area, with probably the largest hapū,” says Chairman of the Marae Committee, John Toe Toe. “It is used regularly for a range of activities, such as tangihanga, unveilings, tourist ventures, and community initiatives. We also have plans to establish the marae as a community hub during an emergency or natural disaster.”

The upgrade project aims to future-proof the wharekai for the next 50 years, allowing it to better cater to the increasing number of whānau, hapū and manuhiri using the marae. It will see the existing building refurbished to ensure Kuranui is energy-efficient and compliant with the New Zealand Building Code and food and hygiene regulations.

Funding from Trust Horizon will go towards the installation of fire and smoke detectors, energy-efficient lighting, commercial kitchen equipment, and two air conditioning systems.

“We are pleased to support Rangitahi Marae achieve the goals of their Marae Development Plan as they work towards the sustainable future of their marae,” says Trust Horizon Trustee, David Bulley. “The modernisation of the wharekai will increase the efficiency and safety of the facility, contributing positively to the well-being of iwi, hapū and whānau.”

Toe Toe says the Marae Committee is appreciative of Trust Horizon’s support. “We were amazed by Trust Horizon’s generosity with the grant and are extremely grateful. We look forward to getting the project underway towards the end of June.”

Learn more about our Trust Horizon community funding here.