On 28 February, our rūnanganui (executive team) met at our marae. On the way down on Friday afternoon, we met with a large group of local Waiau (Franz Josef) community members and Kidsfirst representatives to bless the site next to the Franz Josef School where they will be building their new centre – a beautiful site.
The blessing was carried out by Upoko Rūnanga, Venerable Rev Richard Wallace, with rūnanga members in support.
We returned to Waiau on Sunday, 1 March and we joined Ngāi Tahu Tourism, Franz Josef Glacier Guides and hot pools staff to bless their new building, fronting Cron Street in front of the hot pools.
This is stage one of a two-section building. The next stage is due to start this month with the Department of Conservation area being built.
The blessing, carried out by Upoko Rūnanga, Venerable Rev Richard Wallace supported by Māhaki whānau, allows the Glacier Guides and Hot Pools staff to begin operating from the building. Kōwhaiwhai adorn the top windows, and inside the entire mezzanine wall is covered with a wonderful historic shot of people on the glacier in 1906.
The building has been named Te Ao Mārama, which was the name given by our tīpuna, Te Koeti Tūranga to explain the myriad of colours he and his men encountered while exploring for gold within the cave then at the base of Franz Josef Glacier. Of course it was the sun and light reflecting through the icy glacier.
Franz Joseph School preparing to sing a waiata to Upoko Rūnanga, Richard Wallace, Tumuaki, Susan Wallace and kaiāwhina, Rachael Forsyth.
Richard Wallace about to start the karakia.
The new Waiau building.
Tumuaki and kaikaraka, Susan Wallace holds the door as Upoko Rūnanga, Richard Wallace and Charlotte Russell enter Te Ao Mārama.
Inside the beautiful building.