With a large crowd of Maketu residents looking on, the Minister for Māori Development, the Honourable Te Ururoa Flavell, unveiled the dedication plaque and opened the door to the new space that would service the Maketu community.
Of the many people who contributed to the creation of this magnificent facility, none was more proud that the chairperson of the MHSS Trust, Elaine Tapsell whose vision and years of dedication to the Hauora has seen the organisation grow and enrich the community.
A formal dedication programme included comments by several key individuals who guided the planning and construction of the building.
The featured speaker was MP Flavell who spoke of the Maketu Hauora's leading role in creating a strong and healthy community.
MHSS Chief Financial Officer, Rick Rapana, oversaw the project for the agency and spoke on behalf of the staff who were all smiles in their stylish new MHSS scarfs and ties to commemorate the opening.
Deputy Mayor, Gwenda Merriman, represented the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, and used the occasion to announce the recent acquisition of the adjacent property by the council as site of a future Maketu Community Center.
Closing remarks were made, by Elaine Tapsell who spoke of the thirty year journey of Maketu Health and Social Services, recognising the many individuals for their commitment and courage. Elaine punctuated her final words with a fist pump and ear-to-ear grin that captured everyone’s sense of pride and joy.
Story and photos, courtesy of on Maketu’s community website www.Maketu.nz
