Te Poho-o-Rawiri: Māori success in construction showcased

In November 2022, Gisborne played host to a two-day housing symposium organised by Toitū Tairāwhiti Trust and we were delighted to attend.

The event, held at the prestigious Te Poho-o-Rawiri marae complex, brought together Iwi officials, Crown Ministers, Māori businesses, mainstream businesses, and representatives from various sectors such as construction, health, and vocational training.

The four main local Iwi have already started their ‘Affordable Home Build’ processing plant in the Gisborne/Tairāwhiti region. The plant is capable of building 24 three-bedroom homes in just eight weeks, which will then be transported to locations around the Gisborne East Coast region. The Government is a solid supporter of this concept going forward.

Waihanga Ara Rau was delighted to be invited to attend the symposium and has developed a strong relationship with Toitū Tairāwhiti.  We will assist them with the further development of both their business and vocational outcomes towards Māori success.

During the symposium, attendees had the opportunity to speak with Crown Ministers Peeni Henare and Marama Davidson, who both hold portfolios related to housing. Discussions centred on how Waihanga Ara Rau can assist in achieving Māori success in the housing sector in the future.