Although reopening as a cafe, it would be far more "multi-use" than previously - Ms Waaka said they wanted bookings to be the main use of the facility, for anything from events, to classes.
"I'd like it to have as many uses as possible, with people just using it and enjoying the view whether they're doing yoga or learning to weave, or doing tours."
It would also be used to help promote local Maori businesses, with the trust aiming to
release the untapped potential of Maori tourism in Hawke's Bay.
"There are a large number Maori business owners in the community that are under the radar that we would like to help promote in the building and also showcase art on the walls that will be for sale."
Ms Waaka said unless the building was booked, it would generally be open as a cafe during the day. The public were welcome to inquire about private bookings and encouraged to come in when the cafe opens.
Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated has sponsored the new facility, with $11,500 given last year. This money would be used for set-up costs and to help the venue become "the success it deserves to be on Te Mata Peak".
"Hawke's Bay Maori Tourism are very grateful for this as it shows the love they have for the maunga and support to our mutual causes."
Te Mata Park Trust chairman Mike Devonshire said the trust had some good plans for the building which would enhance the visitor experience to the peak.
Given the facility's previous issues with viability as a restaurant, he praised the multi-use plans as "it's good to have other strings to your bow".
The facility was built in the 1960s as a cafe/restaurant, with accommodation. It has sat empty since closing in 2015, after its leasee Alex Kersjes was adjudged bankrupt, and his three other restaurant businesses liquidated.
Before being reopened by Mr Kersjes in 2013, the building had been vacant for 12 months, and it had not been used as a restaurant for a decade.
