$1m sought for marae revamp

NEW BUILDING: Rawiri Smith in front of Hurunui O Rangi Marae which is due to be rebuilt.PHOTO/LYNDA FERINGA

A new and improved wharekai (dining room) and wharenui (meeting room) are set to be built at Hurunui O Rangi marae.

Rawiri Smith, trustee chair of Hurunui O Rangi, said the marae was "well overdue" for an upgrade after the first marae burned down in 1955.

The trustees are looking at funding for the project, expected to cost $1 million. Initial thoughts are that funding will be gained through applying to central and local government and private businesses.

Mr Smith said they want the new buildings to be energy efficient and sustainable, which means looking at solar panels and wind generated energy.

The project will take at least a year, according to Mr Smith.

The wharekai will be able to seat 200-250 people and the wharenui will be able to sleep about 100 people.

Once the new buildings are erected Mr Smith said the marae whanau want the extended community to use it for education, living events, and sports accommodation and other community initiatives.

"We don't want it to just be used for tangi [funerals]."

However, the marae will be designed to be able to cater for 300-400 people over three days for a tangi, should the need arise.

Hurunui O Rangi means the shade over the eyes of Rangi.

It is situated on the Carterton Gladstone Rd.

There will be an information day and gathering at the marae on the Saturday and Sunday of Queen's Birthday weekend to discuss the marae rebuild.

Mr Smith encourages anyone to attend.