Raetihi Marae will close until the end of the year while a new ablution block is built.
The marae will be closed from 31 August to 31 December to allow construction work to proceed safely and efficiently, Raetihi Marae Trust says.
Chair Brendan Morgan said the existing ablution block, which includes toilets and showers, would be demolished and rebuilt.
“This investment represents an important step in enhancing the facilities at our marae and ensuring they remain safe, accessible and fit for purpose for future generations,” Morgan said.
“As essential services, including the water supply, will be disconnected throughout much of the project, it will not be possible to safely host any activities, events or gatherings.”
The new ablution block is being funded through the Department of Internal Affairs’ Oranga Marae programme.
Morgan said the decision to close the marae for the duration of the work had been carefully considered.
“The decision to close the marae was not made lightly. However, the Trustees believe that a full closure is the most practical and responsible option, enabling contractors to complete the work without interruption while ensuring the safety of whānau and workers.”
Morgan said the Trust understood the closure could cause disruption, but those with bookings during the closure period had been notified.
“We acknowledge that this may cause disappointment or inconvenience for some whānau and organisations, and we sincerely appreciate everyone’s understanding and support as we undertake this significant improvement project.
“We look forward to reopening our doors in early 2027 and welcoming our whānau home to celebrate the completion of this important upgrade and the opening of our new ablution facilities.”
The major restoration of the town’s Rātana Temple has been underway on the same site since June.
The ablution block build follows the installation earlier this year of a solar system as part of a major green energy initiative led and funded by iwi entity Ngā Tāngata Tiaki o Whanganui through its Te Whāwhaki Trust.
A pilot programme has aimed to install solar systems on eight marae from Whanganui to Taumarunui as part of a long-term investment in renewable energy, with more marae installations planned before the end of the year.
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air
