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Te Mānuka Tūtahi Marae
Ko Ngāti Awa te toki tē tangatanga i te rā, tē ngohengohe i te wai Ngāti Awa, whose bindings cannot be loosened by the sun or softened by the rains.
Pandemic impacts on the Tourism and Hospitality sectors continue to be evident the world over. For 2021 it was imperative that we maintained a strategic approach to the delivery of our Operating Visions and Objectives. Tracking performance trends since the arrival of COVID-19 in early 2020 have identified focus areas where the pandemic has presented opportunities for growth. A surge in Conference and Events is a clear indicator that we continue to keep our strategy relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in a rapidly changing environment. An increased amount of pressure was placed on infrastructure, the foundational services necessary to function adequately. This is where we directed resources and funding to optimize the long term sustainability of delivery frameworks.
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V ENTS E
100 % INCREASE IN CONFERENCE AND EVENTS
We have experienced a one hundred percent increase in conference and events over the past 12 months.
Notable events include the Whakaari Eruption anniversary which required several months of meticulous planning under Alert level 2 guidelines. The occasion was livestreamed around the world.
Te Mānuka Tūtahi Marae was the venue of choice for the Ministry of Justice Wai 2660 – Marine Coastal (Takutai Moana) Inquiry. A six-day hire was secured with an anticipated attendance of up to 100 people daily. The Ministry have signaled their intention to rebook for the Wai 2700 – Mana Wāhine Hearing next year. Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiarangi held a double graduation event over two days, the first of its kind due to the 2020 postponement under the Pandemic. Strict Health and Safety measures were implemented to cater for the influx of graduands and their families. The Graduation ceremonies were a huge success. The welcomed boost in event and conference hire was not without its challenges. With zoom capabilities being an essential form of communication, we were faced with major connectivity issues coupled with inadequate lighting and a need to review how we delivered events to adapt to demand. Resolutions came by way of much needed external funding.
S A VINGS
SAVINGS OVER 5 YEARS – WI-FI CONNECTIVITY
In conjunction with Provincial Growth funding and Te Puni Kokiri, Tē Mānuka Tūtahi Marae was a recipient for the Marae Digital Connectivity Fund.
We received fully funded audiovisual equipment, security cameras and a 5 year paid managed Wi-Fi connection. This package allows us to offer a higher quality audio visual experience, maintain a solid internet connection from inside the Wharenui and expand signal range throughout the complex.
E SOURCES R
INCREASE IN RESOURCE CAPACITY
Te Mānuka Tūtatahi purchased essential equipment due to the surge in visitor numbers attached to events. 20 brand new tables, 150 chairs, 3 urns and assorted kitchen equipment have allowed us to save approximately $5k in equipment hire per year. It has also eased the pressure with timing constraints impacted by the lack of resourcing.
L OYMENT EM P
100 % NGĀTI AWA EMPLOYMENT BASE
Mataatua Wharenui is pivotal in revitalising Ngāti Awa identity. It provides opportunities to be employed in an industry that celebrates our unique culture in a contemporary setting that will enhance cultural knowledge and capabilities. We are proud employers of Nga Uri o Ngāti Awa with a 100 percent Ngāti Awa employment base. Staff are trained and mentored by our tribal Kaumātua and Tōhunga.
NDEMIC P A
OPERATIONAL PANDEMIC RESPONSE
Our Pandemic response has seen the establishment of a COVID-19 protocols and procedures document. This is reviewed weekly adapting to the constant shifts in Ministry of Health guidelines. All operational functions are carried out according to strict protocols. The document determines how staff interface within the organisation, customer facing interactions and ensures the safe delivery of all products from Mataatua Wharenui.
