(Left - Right: Lum Tahuri, Marei Apatu, Waylyn Tahuri Whaipakanga, Alayna Watene, Mike Paku)

This year, Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga (TToH), one of the leading kaupapa Māori health and social service providers in Aotearoa, proudly celebrates its 40-year anniversary.

Founded in the early 1980’s, Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga has grown from humble beginnings into a trusted and innovative organisation that today delivers a wide range of services across health, social wellbeing, housing, rangatahi development, education, and cultural revitalisation. Guided by the vision of Whānau Ora, Whānau Pono, Whānau Rangatira, healthy, proud and thriving families, TToH continues to serve whānau in Heretaunga and beyond.

“Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga has been a beacon for wellbeing in Hawke’s Bay over 40 years from humble beginnings to a well established organisation that delivers across all parts of healthcare for our people. We look forward to another 40years” – Bayden Barber, Chairman, Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated.

The 40-year celebration has been marked with a series of events that started earlier this year, honouring the organisation’s journey, achievements, and the many whānau, kaimahi, and leaders who have contributed over the decades.

Today formally marked the 40year anniversary with a pōhiri, followed by speeches from those who were part of the Taiwhenua in the earlier developmental stages.

“The 1980’s was a time of major change for Te Ao Māori”– Alayna Watene former General Manager, Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga

“Hui were held across Kahungunu to discuss and debate what mana motuhake and devolution should look like. We resolved to always be guided by Te Tiriti o Waitangi our Moemoea and Kaupapa”

“In the early 1980’s we were a small but determined team. We were young with lots of energy”

Chief Executive Officer of Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga, Waylyn Tahuri-Whaipakanga, acknowledged everyone for their convergence, commitment, confidence and intentional energy brought to the Taiwhenua today.