When I look back on my childhood in
Martinborough, I think of my family. My Dad's parents, Nan & Papa lived there too. Their house was full of love & warmth. But when I look back, aside from Love, warmth & safety, there was one other constant presence.
Hau Ariki Marae. For as long as I can remember, and probably much longer, My Nan & Papa spent their time devoted to making Papa's dream of constructing a
Marae in
Martinborough, come true. He dreamt it, they worked very very very hard, over many years, and saw Papa's vision turn in to a reality. It took many years, blood, sweat, tears, straight determination & commitment to make this happen. On October 25th 1997 the
Wharenui, 'Te
Whare Wananga O Tupai' at
Hau Ariki Marae was officially opened by Rt Hon Sir Michael
Hardie Boys, the Governor General.
Unfortunately my Papa, didn't get to bask in his success for long, as on July 11th 1999, he passed away.
I am so thankful & proud that he was able to see it finished. When I visit
Hau Ariki, I feel really close to Nan & Papa. We are so lucky that we have such a beautiful
Wharenui at
Hau Ariki. Good things do take time.
My cousins & I in 'Te Whare Wananga o Tupai' over Easter Weekend
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