'New Era In Kawerau'

Tu Tangata, Issue 24, 1 June 1985, Page 17

'New Era In Kawerau'

“As from today you begin a new era in Kawerau,” said the Minister of Maori Affairs and Lands, the Hon. Koro Wetere in speaking at the opening of Te Aotahi.

“There are other marae of this kind in our nation such as the Waititi Marae in west Auckland. Its origins are inclined to what we are about to do here today.

“Although these show changes in structure and concept, we still have our hapu marae.

“Now we have church, urban and multicultural marae, but they all play the same part in inviting and entertaining our guests.

“How are they funded? Most are registered under section 439 of the Maori Affairs Act, but some are not. They are in the care of the church by the canon law of the church. “The Crown is offering land for non traditional marae and I wouldn’t argue with that point, as it was originally Maori land, and the Crown has an obligation to look at these facilities. “I would like, along with Mr Ogilvie (Director of Operations at Tasman), to see the partnership between Maori and pakeha continue forever. “Look at the flags represented here today. We have been friends with those nations for many years. But we need to

cultivate our traditions to bring about a closer relationship and understanding, and what better place to do it than on a marae?”

The young maiden first to enter the house, Ria Mereana Huia talking to Mr Monita Delamere and the Hon. Koro Wetere.

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