Pākaraka Marae

Pākaraka Marae, located in South Taranaki, is the tūrangawaewae or standing place for Ngāti Maika, a sub-tribe of the iwi, Nga Rauru Kiitahii.

“The marae gives us a place where we gather for hui, wānanga, tangihanga and other celebrations,” Bob Brownlie, Marae Trust Treasurer, said.  

“We needed to improve our storage facilities and have a single point where equipment can be stored and secured. This includes, trailers, ride-on lawnmower, scaffolding, various furniture items, gardening tools, wheelbarrows, a workbench and storage shelving.”

Some of the equipment had previously been stored outdoors, but everything is now in the shed and out of the weather. This will ultimately prolong the life of the equipment with the resulting cost benefits that come from this.

“We were aware of the Toi Foundation and their support to community groups. They provided close guidance and support throughout the application process, which really made it straight forward and an easy process to follow. The Foundation approved a $50K grant to go towards the cost of the new shed and the marae made up the difference.

We have now a modern good size storage facility in place which will serve us well for many years to come. The Pākaraka Marae is truly grateful to the Toi Foundation for the grant and their support with this project.”