- Hon Tama Potaka
Ownership of 11 temporary homes at Ōmāhu Marae in Hawke’s Bay has been transferred from the Government to Ōmāhu 2R Māori Reservation and Ngāti Hinemanu, Ngāi Te Upokoiri me ōna Piringa Hapū Authority Trust in a move to support Māori-led housing, Associate Minister of Housing Tama Potaka announced today.
“The Government is committed to supporting Māori-led housing, community resilience, and its Treaty obligations, and through these changes, the homes will transition into affordable housing for whānau, preserving cultural continuity and community ties,” Mr Potaka says.
“This divestment also avoids future government liabilities and ensures the homes will remain in use for social good.”
Ōmāhu Marae is the largest marae in Heretaunga (Hastings) and one of seven marae devastated by Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023.
Following the cyclone, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Temporary Accommodation Service partnered with the people of Te Piringa Hapū, Ōmāhu Marae and Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated to deliver 11 homes at Utaina Ōmāhu village to support displaced whānau.
As the recovery has progressed significantly, the divestment of the village will ensure that the homes continue to serve the community through papakāinga housing.
“It is through these types of housing decisions that we can empower communities. By enabling local ownership and stewardship, we’re supporting regional economic growth and ensuring that these houses continue to deliver public value.”
The homes were transferred to the Ōmāhu Marae Trustees for a nominal amount, reflecting the cultural significance of the site, the Trustees’ financial position, and the Crown’s Treaty obligations.
“This approach honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi by upholding tino rangatiratanga and enabling Māori to lead housing solutions on their whenua,” Mr Potaka says.
“It’s not just about housing, it’s about partnership, and investing in the future of our communities. We’re delivering practical, solutions to affected communities that reflect local leadership and values.”
The enduring name for the temporary village is Utaina Ōmāhu – this prized whakataukī/kiwaha is proudly used by Ōmāhu Whānau and Hapū to symbolise their identity, resilience, and strength in unity. It is the call that binds the people of Ōmāhu to stand as one. In great times and challenging times, you will hear “Utaina Ōmāhu!”
