Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa unveiled the plaque that completes the official status of Mataatua Wharenui as a Wāhi Tīpuna by Heritage New Zealand on Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Previously, the Rūnanga announced a change in focus for Te Mānuka Tūtahi Marae in Whakatāne which initiated a shift from tourism to the hosting of Rangatiratanga based events.

In preparation for this position, Rūnanga had applied to the Māori Heritage Council of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga to have Mataatua Wharenui, the centerpiece of the marae, to become a Wāhi Tīpuna on the New Zealand Heritage List, or Rārangi Kōrero.

 The proposal was put forward by Te Whakaruruhau o Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa, Tā Hirini Moko Mead, and was endorsed by Joe Harawira, who was the Chair of the Rūnanga at that time. The proposal was approved by the Māori Heritage Council of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, and announcement was made confirming the list entry to take effect as of 17th November 2023.

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa Manahautū Reuben Araroa said the new status is exciting and welcome news as it would allow the Rūnanga under the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014 to collaborate with local, regional, and central govt authorities to actively contribute to the protection and maintenance of Mataatua Wharenui.

“This will significantly enhance the future wellbeing of our wharenui as a national icon for Aotearoa.”