Mehemea he mahi pai moo te tangata, mahia—If it is good for the people, make it happen.” Kiingi Korokii

As Manu Taaiko, I take the opportunity to welcome everyone on the behalf of our Koomiti, particularly our whaanau who continue to mourn those who lay interred at Pukekohe Urupaa.

This kaupapa aroha was given form following the chorus of voices seeking acknowledgement of those who lay forgotten. The hope is that recognition may afford them dignity in their repose and enable the healing to commence. The desire for a Maumahara or Memorial is a kaupapa that unites Pukekohe’s Communities.

Aroha, Whakakotahi, Ngaakau Pono me Whakaute – Compassion, Unity, Integrity and Respect are principles that underpin the ethos of this kaupapa and our Koomiti.

We envisage a collaborative partnership, hapori-centric with co-design in mind, to recognise those interred and the significance of this Waahi Tapu (hallowed ground).

It is the intention that this platform be a tool for education and outreach about the kaupapa and somewhat reflective – ka toipoto i emi – to be close and gathered. Our priority as always, remains the kaupapa and people.

With this in mind, please join us as we begin our haerenga and journey, so that we may advance stepping with mindfulness, compassion, inclusivity, and respect for one another.

Transformation, sanctuary, reclamation.

Aumaarire,

Makere Rika-Heke
Chair, Pukekohe Memorial Cemetery Committee