When the Rugby World Cup tournament arrives in Te Moana ā Toi, the unique culture and manaakitanga of Ngāi Tamarāwaho will be ready for international exposure.

Huria Marae will pōwhiri the Fijian rugby team to the rohe and New Zealand, and Ngāi Tamarāwaho hapū have their sights set on the opportunity to promote tourism opportunities during the penultimate rugby competition and beyond.

The hapū recognise they have the potential to provide much needed jobs and income for the well-being of their whānau. The Rugby World Cup presents an opportunity for Ngāi Tamarāwaho to plan for and to secure a positive future for their whānau.

The marae currently operates a business providing cultural experiences for tourists, sharing manaaki, stories, and performances by showcasing their natural and cultural taonga within the rohe of Ngāi Tamarāwaho. Most of their clientele come from the increasing number of cruise ships arriving in the Port of Tauranga.

Te Puni Kōkiri has worked alongside Huria Marae to strengthen their practices and systems. This includes first aid training, food safety and Qualmark accreditation. The training and development is critical for achieving the business, employment, and income aspirations of the hapū.