The Fale Malae Trust and Wellington City Council are celebrating the approval of resource consent for the redevelopment of Frank Kitts Park, including the long-awaited Fale Malae.

The approval follows years of planning, design, strong relationships, and advocacy.

Fale Malae Chair Adrian Orr says Pasifika communities across Aotearoa will be celebrating this decision by the Hearing Commissioner, which recognises the importance of our identity as a Pacific nation.

“We’ve been working on this for a long time, and the approval of our resource consent is both significant and uplifting.

“The Fale Malae has always been about creating a place that reflects who we are as a proud Pacific nation – a home for Pacific culture, learning, connection and celebration. Knowing that we can now move from aspiration to delivery is deeply meaningful.”

Fale Malae Patron Luamanuvao Dame Winnie Laban says the Trust is grateful for the support it has received over the years from Pasifika leaders, government partners, mana whenua and the Wellington community.

“Our people have carried this vision with patience, persistence and hope. Today’s announcement honours that commitment and brings us much closer to a space that future generations will be proud to call their own.”

Wellington Mayor Andrew Little says the approval is a good sign for the Fale Malae venture.

“I congratulate the Fale Malae Trust for achieving this important milestone and wish them well with their fundraising efforts. Once it is developed the Fale Malae will be a real asset for our Pasifika communities and our waterfront.”

With consent granted, the Fale Malae project now moves into its next phase of fundraising and detailed design, while the Trust and Council work together to advance planning for construction in the future.

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