"Protocol says once a female, one who has not begun menstruating, crosses the threshold of the wharenui, that is when its life begins," Mr Ngaropo said.
In the wharenui during the karakia, Ngati Awa elders touched the restored carvings, their tipuna, as tears streamed down their faces.
Following the blessing breakfast was served to 1300 guests, well up on the between 800 and 1000 expected.
An impassioned powhiri at 9am welcomed the 2000 manuhiri (guests) who filled Muriwai Drive at the front of the complex.
Included in the many speeches was a group from Mauke, an island of Rarotonga, who brought with them a stone from their home village.
Mr Ngaropo said it was believed the Mataatua waka that landed in Whakatane left from Mauke during the main migration. They also gifted a stone from the crew of Te Aurere, the double-hulled waka. This means Te Aurere must visit Mataatua if she is passing.
Ngati Awa communications manager William Stewart said the feedback he had received from both locals and visitors, had been great. "There were many different units who had roles to fill and jobs to complete to make the day a success," Mr Stewart said. "Everyone just got on with things and the day ran like clockwork."
Lunch was served after the powhiri and impromptu acts on the ground in front of the marae entertained the masses for hours. "The group from the Cook Islands performed, as did the visitors from Hawaii and other iwi," Mr Stewart said. "It was awesome."
While the official opening was taking place at the Te Manua Tutahi complex, the Mataatua Festival went ahead on the Mataatua Reserve. Performances from local haka groups, bands and singer/songwriter Maisey Rika entertained the crowds. After a 3am start, the festivities drew to a close at 6pm.
