The Māori Housing Network has already assisted six kaumātua flats and eight whānau homes in need on the Chatham Islands to repair and upgrade their homes over the past two years, including the home of Aunty Joan.  A long-time Chatham Islands resident, she sought help from Hā o te Ora o Wharekauri Trust and was eligible to have 15 solar panels installed.  Next on the list is to have indoor toilet and connection to the water and sewerage systems. We acknowledge the previous Associate Minister of Housing, Hon Tariana Turia, who tirelessly supported government’s housing assistance to the Islands.

Aunty Joan’s story is a reminder that quite often the best outcomes are reached through the combined efforts of many, collaboration is key.  Sharing ideas, information and networking will be critical part of the fourth National Māori Housing Conference being held in Tauranga on 29 September.   

TPK are the official sponsor of the event and we encourage whānau, individuals and organisations to register to attend the conference. Our mutual interest is in building capability in the Māori housing sector through the sharing of ideas, information and networking to improve housing outcomes for whānau Māori and communities.

Celebrating the people and groups who work tirelessly to ensure te reo Māori remains at the forefront of Māori development will be the focus of this year’s Māori Language Awards.  Nominations are now open with the annual awards dinner taking place in New Plymouth on 11 November. 

E tika ana tā tātou whakanui i te hunga pīkoko e okea ururoatia ana kia mate-kore ai tō tātou reo.  Me i kore ake tō rātou nanaiore ki te reo, e kore rawa rā ia e ora.  Kei ngā manawa piharau o tō tātou reo rangatira, tēnei ka mihi.