Whenua at Waimahana Marae was blessed on January 29, marking the start of construction of the first of three papakāinga developments.

Minister Jackson attended the event and announced an investment of $12.35 million into the project, supported through Whai Kāinga Whai Oranga.

“I congratulate the whānau for reaching this important milestone in their housing journey. I know the vision behind this papakāinga is to ensure intergenerational living thrives, where whānau are living in warm, safe and affordable homes,” Willie Jackson said.

Once complete, the three papakāinga projects will comprise of 27 rental homes built across the marae of Ngāti Tahu – Ngāti Whaoa.

The first project at Waimahana Marae will see seven collectively owned rental homes built for local whānau.

The second and third projects will build 20 rental homes for kaumātua.

Minister Jackson also unveiled a plaque dedicated to the tamariki who perished during the Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918.

“This loss is a sad reality for many Māori communities and a reminder to all of us about the importance of protecting our whānau and whakapapa during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We can learn from our past, draw strength from it and look forward to a brighter future.

"The next generation of tamariki will live in warm, safe and healthy homes thanks to the vision and hard work of their whānau,” Willie Jackson said.