The beginning of a new journey to strengthen resilience and wellbeing was how Waikato-Tanui representatives described Waikato District Council’s first Toituu Marae Information Evening.
Facilitated by Council’s Maaori Partnerships team, the event held on 21 October provided an opportunity for Council to connect with marae and begin building a genuine, authentic partnership based on reciprocity and mutual respect.
Waikato District Mayor Jacqui Church opened the evening, emphasising the importance of supporting all communities and expressing a strong commitment to meaningful engagement with marae.
Mayor Jacqui said she regarded the event as a positive and active step forward in both the journey and the vision she led for Council to have deeper more meaningful relationships at the grassroots level with marae and hapuu.
"I’m excited. With the wonderful support from councillors, particularly our two Maaori ward councillors, and thanks to the focus of the dynamic and very capable Maaori Partnerships team, along with the generous, open participation of the leaders of many of our marae, this positive journey has begun in earnest," she said.
Kawena Jones from Oomaero Paa said that Council kaimahi (staff) from various teams presented key topics such as marae resilience, papakaainga housing, open spaces, economic development, and infrastructure.
“The focus was on issues that directly impact marae and hapuu. It was an enriching experience and felt like a positive step forward,” he said.
The event left attendees hopeful about future collaboration. Waikato-Tainui representatives described it as the beginning of a new journey, one that aims to strengthen the resilience and wellbeing of our marae and communities.
Council is committed to building liveable thriving and connected communities.
With 39 marae in the Waikato district, kaimahi are focused on fostering strong, meaningful relationships, while recognising that there is still much work ahead.
The success of the event was evidence that Council is moving in the right direction.
Waahi Paa representative Moeroa Devonshire echoed this sentiment by saying:
“Council's openness and willingness to engage was greatly appreciated. We are excited about the potential for future collaboration and confident that together, we can achieve positive outcomes for marae and the wider community.”
If any marae in the Waikato district were unable to participate, please reach out to Amiria McGarvey at amiria.mcgarvey@waikatodc.govt.nz to register for future hui.
The next Toituu Marae hui is planned for December.
