Mareikura Waka Ama Club officially opened their new waka storage facility, with paddlers, club members, supporters and whānau gathered to welcome the long-awaited milestone.
The day began at 5am with a karakia led by Morehu Pewhairangi. Te Wharewaka o Mareikura was unveiled as the name of the facility, recognising its role as the dedicated home for the club’s waka.
By 9am, Anzac Park was filled with past and present members, those involved in the build and long-time supporters who have carried this kaupapa through many years of planning, detours and perseverance.
Club chair Billy Maxwell acknowledged the long and challenging journey, thanking the committee who initiated the project, those who helped bring it to fruition and all the funders.
Founder Matahi Brightwell reflected on the progress made over the past 40 years towards establishing the wharewaka.
“It’s not just about storage. It’s a space for our tamariki to feel free, safe and hear their language being spoken and where they’re from,” said Matahi.
Guest speakers all spoke of the dedication behind the project and the importance of having a purpose-built space for the club’s fleet and growing membership.
Trust Tairāwhiti chief executive Doug Jones reinforced the project’s alignment with the Trust’s wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora.
“It helps us understand how projects support equity, sustainability, integrity and how they contribute to our six wellbeing outcomes. This project clearly met the mark. We could see the potential for increased participation in waka ama, improved equity through a dedicated home for the sport, stronger social and whānau connections, and a facility that builds community capability while supporting events of regional and national significance.
“Most importantly, we knew Mareikura had long dreamed of a permanent home. Supporting that vision, especially as the club celebrates its 40th anniversary, has been a privilege for the Trust,” Doug said.
A paddle past the new facility followed the formalities, paying tribute to Mareikura members who have passed.
Trust Tairāwhiti contributed $1.3m to the project as part of the early win initiatives identified in the Tairāwhiti Sports Facilities Business Case.