A new laundromat at Wainuiomata Marae aims to create a sustainable space for whānau while generating a new source of income for the community.
Te Arohanui Laundromat was built on a portion of marae land to support the marae financially while providing a practical service for local whānau.
Nathan Waitai, who is involved in running the laundromat, says, “When we approached the Marae, they were in agreement to give us a portion of the land to build it. That brings in a revenue stream for the Marae, and we’re quite honoured to be the first self-service laundromat in Aotearoa.”
“We also became an MSD supplier, so we can help with beneficiaries and kaumātua that are struggling, which had never been done before,” says Waitai.
Supporting all whānau
Beyond washing clothes, the laundromat is evolving into a communal hub where people gather, share a kōrero, and spend time at the marae.
Wainuiomata kuia, Linda Olsen, says the laundromat is drawing people to the marae.
“It’s never really been busy around this area, so it’s really complementing the Marae people and marae whānau all around,” says Olsen.
Marae members have noticed an influx of whānau through the doors—including individuals who would not normally spend time at the complex.
For Waitai, seeing whānau reconnect with the space has been the most rewarding shift. Waiting for laundry now introduces visitors to the marae’s tukutuku panels, rāranga, Pukeatua, and Matariki displays.
“What I’ve noticed over the last three weeks is that whānau that didn’t normally come and hang out at the marae, they’re coming because of the laundry.”
A vision for the future
The project forms part of a broader vision for Wainuiomata Marae as it explores sustainable ways to support its community. With interest spreading across Aotearoa, leaders hope the model will inspire other marae to pursue similar community-focused ventures.
Although Te Arohanui Laundromat is in its early stages, it is already making a tangible impact, drawing people through the doors and strengthening community ties.
“We’ve already had five inquiries from around the motu wanting to do the same thing, so I think it will catch on through the kūmara vine,” says Waitai.
