Sunday 5 March was a warm day, and with equally warm hearts around 60 whānau from Puketeraki, Moeraki and Ōtākou gathered at Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki Marae to acknowledge and farewell Tā Mark Solomon on his departure as Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu representative and Kaiwhakahaere. Mark did not stand for re-election for Kaikōura bringing 18 years of service as Kaiwhakahaere to an end. Speeches of thanks and aroha were expressed and superb kai was served by Aroha and her team, complemented by the harmonious and very polished performance of waiata and poi by He Waka Kōtuia. Tā Mark spoke of how he became Kaiwhakahaere and the joys and challenges of the role since. He is still deputy chairman of the Canterbury DHB Board, and board member of Te Ohu Kai Moana, the Māori Fisheries Trust. Thank you Mark, we wish you and your whānau well.
