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Dawn blessing and official opening of centre

February 13, 2023

The newly upgraded centre will be officially opened to the public with a celebration event on Friday 24 February. 

Ahead of this, a dawn blessing of the building will be led by mana whenua. All are welcome to attend. Assemble at 5.45am, for 6.00am commencement.

The designed upgrade was developed in partnership with members of the community, staff and board members from the Strathmore Park Community Centre Trust, and members of the Trust’s Te Rōpū Māori. 

Construction on the $2.1 million upgrade began in March 2022, with the upgrade having increased functionality, usability, and safety for the community, and includes; new floor, kitchen and better storage, improved subfloor drainage, improved insulation, and improved landscaping.  

A key element of the upgrade is the exterior artwork by Motu Kairangi local and mana whenua artist Pokau Te Ahuru (Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Te Atiawa, Ngāruahinerangi) titled He Kura Tipua, He Kura Kairangi - ‘a sacred phenomenon, a treasure of high esteem’.

The design is based on Tukutuku (ornamental woven latticework panels) patterns and principles and pays homage to the many different iwi who once occupied Motu Kairangi and the wider peninsula.  

Pokau has used three tukutuku patterns: niho taniwha, pātikitiki and kaokao, to symbolise community and occupation. The design and production were created in collaboration with Etch Architecture.  

 

Bring along the whole whānau to celebrate the opening.

Date: Friday 24 February 2023 

Time: 10 - 11am 

Where: 108 Strathmore Avenue, Strathmore Park, Wellington

The opening celebration is just the beginning of a month-long series of events to welcome the community into the space. 

The centre will be hosting Raranga (weaving) classes, performances for tamariki, film nights, speakers and even Drag Bingo! Keep an eye on our What's On page for the full schedule of events.