Maori TV Marae DIY is a hit in Tauranga

Maori TV Marae DIY is a hit in Tauranga

The Maori TV Marae DIY renovation of Ongarahu Pa in Tauranga was a great success over the Easter Weekend.

When Ongarahu Pa site was selected for a special makeover by the crew of Maori TV’s Marae DIY, the word spread quickly.

The makeover took place from 14 to 17 April and included general landscaping, native tree planting, a waharoa (entrance shelter outside the pa), palisades around the trench and a bridge

Amongst the hundreds of people who mucked in to get the renovations underway were members of AIA New Zealand, who recently came on board as sponsors of the show. Those who were involved in the four-day project unanimously agree that the experience was one of the most uplifting and they had never been more proud to be a Kiwi, or a member of AIA, who places high importance in making a strong presence in their communities. The staff was blown away by the involvement and attitude of the kids who took part, from young school kids to polytech workers.

Several members of the local community including students from Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Otepou also helped out on site. Their contribution and muscle power helped make the renovation work seamless.

Ongarahu Pa caretaker and Environment Manager at Pirirakau Incorporated Society, Julie Sparham, made the submission to Maori TV for the pa to receive the make-over. As the organiser of the make-over project, Julie would be available for comment on the success of the four-day project and to provide any further information.

Picture captions:

The Marae DIY Crew: The crew who worked on the four day make-over project at Ongarahu Pa including the AIA team

The Mount Kids: Students from Te Kura Kaupapa Maori O Otepou also helped out on site

ENDS

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