Te Hana Community
Te Hana Community Development Charitable Trust was formed in 2002 by local iwi and community members in response to serious social and economic concerns impacting the Northland community.
August 2011
It aims to revitalise the rurally isolated and disadvantaged communities of Te Hana, Oruawharo and Wellsford by establishing a marae and providing sustainable solutions to employment and education issues.
The result is a contemporary and ancient marae, showcasing both the traditional and modern Māori world views. The contemporary marae hosts visitors in a modern setting, while nearby is a historically accurate 17th Century papakāinga, a traditional village used for ceremonial occasions and as a hands-on example of traditional construction methods.
The contemporary community marae was opened at a dawn ceremony in December 2010 and since opening has hosted day and overnight visits by schools, universities and other groups seeking an authentic Māori cultural experience. The traditional 17th Century papakāinga and ancient marae was officially opened and blessed on 25 June 2011.
Also offered at Te Hana are certificate courses in computing, business administration, te putaketanga o te reo and small business management, as well as community weaving, horticulture and te reo programmes.
In recognition of the special role marae play in our communities, ASB Community Trust supports marae development projects. At Te Hana a grant of $549,532 has helped fund the construction of the marae and papakāinga, which align strongly with the Trust’s marae development strategy.
Haere mai, haere mai
When Trustees and staff of ASB Community Trust visited Te Hana in September 2011 they were given a special welcome.