Whaiora Marae

‘Whaiora Marae Maaori Catholic Centre’ was created by Pā Bierbooms, the Otara and Otāhuhu Māori Catholic Societies "to meet the aspirations and needs of whānau Māori from Ngā Hau e Wha."

"The whare tūpuna Te Wai Ariki was officially opened on 22 October 1977. The Māori Catholic Society is integral to the uniqueness of Whaiora where Māori identity and cultural aspirations are integrated with religious expression. The ornate whakairo (carvings) in the whare tūpuna bear testament to this special relationship where the two main Poutokomanawa – ridge- poles respectively honour paramount chief Pōtatau Te Wherowhero and Bishop Pompallier."

Whaiora marae strives to meet the spiritual and cultural aspirations of whaanau, hapū and iwi and whānau Māori residing in Otara and the wider communities. It endeavours to provide facilities for the operation and delivery of health and education programmes, initiatives that will uplift and enrich Māori aspirations as well as the spiritual and social health and wellbeing of all people."

See also:

• Te Kohtahi a Tāmaki - Whaiora Marae