Source: Auckland Council
Rānui local weavers now have a new pā harakeke (flax garden) which will provide access to the natural resource and taonga (treasure), thanks to the support from Henderson-Massey Local Board.
Located in Te Rangi Hiroa Youth Park, the pā harakeke is funded through Henderson-Massey Local Board’s environmental work programme and led by local community group Te Waipuna Puawai.
Henderson-Massey Local Board member Dan Collins says the board is pleased to support the garden development and it’s great for the community to have access to traditional plants.
“Due to the extreme weather events last year and pandemic challenges, development of the pā harakeke at Te Rangi Hiroa has been quite a journey. It’s awesome to see this community-driven project finally come to life, and the persistence of all those involved rewarded,” says Dan, a Rānui/Swanson local who has been living in the area for more than 15 years.
“It was great to see tamariki from Birdwood School at the opening. The pā harakeke is a uniquely Rānui asset and will provide learning and development opportunities for the local community and schools.
“Flax is one of the most important fibre plants to Māori in Aotearoa and it’s heartening to see the tradition being enjoyed by the community, and the learning passed on to our future generations.
Henderson-Massey Local Board Members Brenda Brady, Dan Collins and Ingrid Papau at the opening of the pā harakeke (left to right). Photo credit: Isoa Kavakimotu
Te Waipuna Puawai are proposing to use the pā harakeke to educate local school children and train at-risk young people to achieve horticulture qualifications.
The community organisation facilitates local environmental volunteering, with a particular focus on meaningful development opportunities for at-risk youth participants. Community food programmes are their another focus, including providing free food boxes to 100 local families in need each week.
Bill Takerei, Manukura/CEO of Te Waipuna Puawai thanks Henderson-Massey Local Board for their ongoing support.
“Te Waipuna Puawai are very grateful for the support of the Henderson-Massey local board to bring this exciting project to fruition. We acknowledge the Rānui community and the many volunteers involved to make this happen and look forward to future projects that reflect close community, and local board collaboration.”
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