Manawaatia Te Whare Kaakati – 30 years old
Whānau, iwi, and maataawaka gathered at Whakatū Marae, Nelson, yesterday to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the opening of Te Whare Kaakati. It was a day filled with connection, remembrance, and appreciation for the people and history that have shaped this special place.
The occasion also marked other significant milestones for Whakatū Marae, including 40 years of the Kōkiri buildings, which were opened in 1985, 30 years of Whare Kaakati, built in 1995, and 20 years of the wharekai Mauri Ora, opened in 2005. Each of these buildings holds deep meaning, representing the strength, resilience, and unity of the community over the decades.
The celebration began with a warm welcome from CEO Shane Graham, setting the tone for the day. Archdeacon Harvey Ruru followed with a karakia, grounding the celebration in tikanga and acknowledging those who came before us.
Chairperson of the Whakatū Marae Committee, Jane de Feu, spoke about the significance of the day, emphasizing that it was an opportunity not just to reflect on the past but to celebrate the present and the future of Whakatū Marae. She shared:
"It’s about celebrating that we are all here today, that we can come together to honor our beautiful whare and the development of our marae."
Whānau members shared heartfelt stories of their childhood, reminiscing about the times they spent at the marae and the ways they contributed to its development. Their kōrero highlighted the deep connection between the people and the place, reminding everyone of the collective effort that built Te Whare Kaakati and continues to sustain it.
Following the speakers, a delicious feast was shared, with Tuia Te Matangi providing beautiful waiata to accompany the meal. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, gratitude, and a sense of unity.
The day was not only a time to celebrate the whare but also to acknowledge and honor everyone who has played a role in its journey—those who have passed on and those who are still here, continuing the legacy. It was a moment to whakanui the people, the memories, and the enduring spirit of Whakatū Marae.
Mauri ora!
