Meri Kirihimete
Another year is drawing to a close and we are looking forward to some winding down time after a busy and productive year.
A fully engaged portfolio management system keeps the office busy, with events such as Whenua Fest, Strengthening Communities, Whaikōrero Wānanga, digital archiving, Mahinga Kai Cultural Park planning and redevelopment plans all on the go.
Our full annual report was published this year including our structures, goals, objectives and Statement of Intent for the rūnanga. It’s a document that those who were involved with can be proud of.
Te Rūnanga and executive elections were held this year. Ngaire Tainui was successfully reappointed as our representative, with Rik Tainui as her alternate. Donna Tainui and Nige Robinson have stepped into new roles as chair and deputy respectively, Ngaire is treasurer and Rochelle Tainui was re-appointed secretary.
Our office space has been sold, so we are looking for new premises in the New Year. Some plans are in the pipeline and we are hoping to secure our new premises before Christmas.
We are waiting with baited breath to hear the Lotteries Commissions decision on our funding application for the redevelopment of the wharekai. Our plan is for this project to start in March 2014. Many months of hard work has gone into the planning and funding sources for this redevelopment, so all fingers and toes are crossed at this end.
Kyra Tainui has resigned as treasurer and director of Te Kāhui o Ōnuku Charitable Company after many years of volunteered time. She always ensured the company’s pūtea was recorded and accounted for. Thank you very much Kyra for your outstanding work that enabled us to feel confident in our accountability.
Sadly this year we lost three beautiful wahine toa at Ōnuku. Bernice Tainui passed away in February, followed closely by Moana Boardman and then Donna Robinson. Our love and strength is with all of these families as they continue to grieve their loss.
We wish you all a safe and enjoyable summer holiday and hope that Christmas brings you together with loved ones and pleasant memories.
Ngā mihi, Ōnuku Executive and Operations.