“This is more than just a building, it’s a symbol of what we can achieve when we come together. He Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa strengthens collaboration among Tūwharetoa entities and deepens our partnership with Taupō District Council.
“It’s a space where we can work side by side for the benefit of our whānau, hapū, iwi and the wider community.”
Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas said sharing a building with Tūwharetoa entities would encourage a deeper understanding of perspectives.
“I hope this space will be a place of better collaboration between iwi, council, Amplify, and Love Taupō. By working together in one spot, we can leverage our different strengths to drive economic development and community wellbeing,” he said.
The building is also home to the Mayoral office and the Council Chambers where council, committee meetings and workshops will take place. The latter remain open to the public.
The building features artwork by renowned local artists, including Haki Williams and Te Maari Gardiner, that reflect the heritage of Tūwharetoa.
Key installations include Ngā Mata o Tūwharetoa and the Celestial Waka which draw on knowledge from the late kaumātua Te Kanawa Pitiroi and pay tribute to Māori astronomy and ancestral wisdom.
The council started working from the new building this week.
Council customer and visitor information centre for rates, dog registrations, and other inquiries remain at 30 Tongariro St.
