The first groundbreaking powhiri was held on 10th July 2021. The CEO of Ngai Te Rangi challenged us to have this powhiri for migrants and we took up this challenge. After spending 6 months planning for this event with the support of Welcoming communities, the powhiri was held and it was attended by more than 700 migrants from across the Bay of Plenty. Meng Foon, Race Relations commissioner was the chief guest. Many dignitaries attended the event including Hon.Jan Tinetti, Fungai Mhlanga among others.
After the warm welcome and aroha shown to us by the tangata whenua, the groups performed on the marae grounds and had the opportunity to express their gratitude to the hosts. This was followed by a shared meal which included food provided by the marae as well as traditional food brought in as a koha by the communities.
After the warm welcome and aroha shown to us by the tangata whenua, the groups performed on the marae grounds and had the opportunity to express their gratitude to the hosts. This was followed by a shared meal which included food provided by the marae as well as traditional food brought in as a koha by the communities.