It is with sadness we farewelled one of our own this month. A true gentleman from Rāpaki, Dudley Couch, very kind and always had a smile on his face. Love and support to his family.

Apologies for the very brief update on all that is happening this month. Needing to meet so many deadlines – but please always feel free to provide a pānui you may wish to share.

Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke current portfolios

Health: Christina Henderson.

Mokopuna Ora Seminar Program

Where: Rehua Marae
When: Wednesday 12 October
Keynote speakers include our own June Swindells, chair of Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke and myself, Cushla Dwyer. We look forward to seeing you there if you can make it. Also, for Christina to hold another of her fabulous Health Days back here in Rāpaki.

Marae news

After just missing the cut off for last month’s Te Pānui Rūnaka to share the fantastic news at least three of our kaumātua have managed to kick the addiction of cigarettes. It has now been at least a couple of months. Support is available here in the office for those wishing to utilise the Quit Card Cessation Program.

I have also handed out some freebies to those wishing to utilise natural options. Very happy to provide further information here and look forward to scheduling some events. Please remember the marae is a non-smoking environment which includes all the facilities attached.

Upcoming rūnanga meetings

  • October 9 Sunday, 9am
  • November 13 Sunday, 9am
  • December 11 Sunday, 9am

Wānanga Whaikōrero

Many thanks to all those actively involved in the marae and all those who carry in their hearts the love of our very special place. Ngā mihi. Cushla Dwyer.

New wharekai

Our wharekai is taking shape. Full credit to all those working on our facilities. And thank you Elaine for taking this photo. I am dreadful at photographs through the fence.

Our new wharekai here at Rāpaki is taking shape.

Our new wharekai here at Rāpaki is taking shape.