Our newly refurbished library and community hub in Tokoroa was officially reopened with the gifted name Huihuinga Rau on Monday 14 September. Marked by a ribbon cutting and karakia blessing ceremony with 100 attendees, this major Council project has now formally been delivered to the community of South Waikato.
Speeches were presented by Mayor Gary Petley, Executive Manager for Delivery, Nick Murphy, and Minister Tengaru Paniora from St Luke's Pacific Islanders Presbyterian Church – followed by karakia and waiata from kaumatua and representatives of Raukawa iwi.
Opening remarks noted the significance of this project, not only for the work involved with restrengthening, restoring and renovating the 32-year-old building - but also thanking Raukawa for the new name.
Notably, speakers expressed excitement for this inclusive space for the community and the creation of the 'one stop shop' customer solutions hub to help enhance our local customer experience.
Also in attendance were members from South Waikato Pacific Islands Community Services (SWIPCS), students from Tokoroa Intermediate and Te Hiringa Kura Kaupapa - as well as key stakeholders and many members of the community.
We warmly invite our community to check out the Huihuinga Rau Reopening Events Programme this week, otherwise Huihuinga Rau is now open until 5.30pm Monday to Friday, and 9am – 1pm Saturday.
