Harvest Festival, Taputeranga Marae, Feb 20-21, nau mai, haere mai!

This exciting event, to be held in conjunction with the Island Bay festival, is about reclaiming and celebrating the joy of our traditional harvest time, and re-learning the skills of growing our own kai. In doing so we especially honour Papatuanuku and Rongomatane.

The event will begin with a powhiri for founder Sir Michael Fowler and the Sisters of Compassion at 9.30am Saturday.

But if you miss the powhiri, you’re still welcome any time before  5pm on Saturday or Sunday – its a relaxed open weekend, and all comers will be given guided tours of the marae and gardens (on a koha basis).

Themes for the day include gardening in small or large spaces, rongoa, sustainable living, plus a chance to see this unique and inspiring inner-city marae, set in a haven  of 24 hectares of regenerating native forest, and featuring several whare over nine floors.

Ukaipo is particularly special - the main pou and artworks in that house were made by Robyn Kahukiwa and Diane Prince. The marae also features a range of outdoor sculptural works, and innovative landscaping concepts in progress.

If you would like to set up a stall at the marae during this open weekend, please contact Bruce Stewart or Pare on 04-9706235 or 027-222-2652. Otherwise, just come for a visit!