Marae History
Houmaitawhiti
This Tupuna Whare originally stood at Maketu and was brought inland to the present site at Otaramarae Bay. The correct name of the Marae complex is Pounamunui. The Tupuna Whare is named Houmaitawhiti, who was the father of Tamatekapua. The dining room is named after one of the wives, namely Hinekukutirangi.
Houmaitawhiti lived in Hawaiki and did not live in Aotearoa.
The marae is situated 24 kms from Rotorua on the road to Tauranga (sh33). Visitors traveling from Rotorua will turn right on the turnoff to Otaramarae Bay; they should not proceed down Maniatutu Rd.
Marae Protocols
The Kawa of the Marae is Te Arawa.
The Marae is Smokefree (Auahi Kore) and alcohol is not permitted on the premises. All hirers must clean the marae at the completion of your Hui.
Marae Complex
The large complex includes shower facilities. The kitchen is extensive and includes all cutlery, crockery and kitchen utensils. The dining facility seats 300.
The dining room also includes a stage area and small room on the side of the stage. The complex also includes two tennis courts. Two elders live in dwellings on the Marae.
Marae Komiti Meetings
The Marae Komiti meet monthly on the second Sunday of each month to ensure payment of all accounts and to ensure all maintenance is duly undertaken. The elected persons are:
Chairperson Mr John Merito
Treasurer Mr Richard Vercoe
Secretary Ms Mapihi Raharuhi
All whanau are welcome to attend meetings on an informal basis and all adult members have voting rights.
Marae Bookings
For all hireage of the facility contact;
Ms Mapihi Raharuhi (07) 3624362 (evenings)
Acknowledgements
The Marae Komiti acknowledges the tangible support of the Whangamoa Trust which is the land block adjacent to the marae. The Komiti also acknowledges the existing and previous Marae trustees.
Page last updated 29 Aug 2007
