Karakia Blesses Waimangu’s New Boats and New Direction
A significant milestone was recently celebrated at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, with a karakia to name and launch the valley’s two new vessels on Lake Rotomahana and to acknowledge the recent change in ownership.
The karakia was conducted by representatives from Tūhourangi Tribal Authority and Te Puia NZMACI Limited Partnership – owners of Rotorua’s Waimangu Volcanic Valley – each now holding a 50% share in the business.
In addition, Te Puia | New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI) has taken on management of day-to-day operations, further strengthening a close working relationship that has been built over the past eight years. The new management agreement brings both organisations into even closer alignment, supporting a unified vision for the future of the business.
Representatives from Tūhourangi Tribal Authority and Te Puia NZMACI Limited Partnership came together to celebrate Waimangu’s new direction.
Speakers also paid tribute to the legacy of leaders who helped shape Waimangu, including the late former owner Harvey James (passed 2017) and former directors Harena Warbrick, Alan Skipwith and George Hickton, who passed more recently. Their contributions were acknowledged with respect and gratitude.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley Board Chair Deryck Shaw said the day signaled an exciting new era.
“These new vessels and upgraded facilities are designed to enhance the visitor experience, positioning Waimangu to continue delivering outstanding experiences for both international and domestic manuhiri (visitors).”
Shaw also acknowledged the significant investment made by the Tūhourangi / Ngāti Rangitihi Joint Administering Body, which owns and administers the whenua (land). Recent developments include major sustainability improvements, such as new septic and bathroom facilities in the valley.
The boats are blessed as part of the ceremony.
Owner representatives – Tūhourangi Tribal Authority Chair Kirikowhai Mikaere and Te Puia Chief Executive Tim Cossar spoke to the deep ancestral connection’s iwi have to the whenua and the shared commitment to creating ongoing wellbeing and opportunity for their people through this partnership.
