Lorraine Hetaraka and Hinemoa Wetere pictured with TPK kaitono, Angela Anderson (left).
Last year, Hon. Nanaia Mahuta announced a $2.4 million investment in housing as part of the ongoing community development project for the village. Lorraine and Hinemoa checked out half a dozen homes which have been re-roofed over the past few weeks. Sustainability Options was involved in undertaking the house assessments of 102 homes with Te Puni Kōkiri over the Christmas period.
“The thing that came through quite strongly is whānau have made a real effort in cleaning up their places,” she says. “That pride is coming through – just with the roof. I expect this will increase as further alterations get underway.”
Hinemoa says the community have been planning over the past several years to leave a vibrant, beautiful, and sustainable village for the future generation.
“Many of the homes are in disrepair, including roofing, electrical, sewerage issues and poor water quality. The idea is to have a collaborative effort through DIY over five to six weeks, where people from within the community who have the time, skills and motivation will get these homes up to standard. We’re talking about repairing windowsills, doors and preparing homes for painting. Sustainability Options, who have the expertise and knowledge, will be mentoring our groups.”
Hinemoa says the project has brought the village to the attention of people who are able to support or give resources to further enhance what is currently going on.
“Te Arawa Whānau Ora have ensured whānau have been well looked after through Covid-19. And there’s also been a community effort to do that together. People are excited. There’s a change in the environment,” she says.
