Pounamu Rising!

Pounamu is the homestead to an inspirational and generous family who have given and continue to give to their community.

Myself and many others in the small Māori community of Motueka and Aotearoa wide would like to raise some funds to assist in the renovation of this beautiful home, as it houses certain individuals such as Te Tahi Tākao (Koro Tahi) who is known in particular for his work in Māori Mental Health. Koro Tahi received a Queen’s Service Medal for his contributions in this field and in the community. Koro Tahi is also known for his continual contribution and support to Te Āwhina Marae, and was a Justice of the Peace for over 30 years.

Pounamu belong’s to Koro Tahi’s eldest daughter Marama, who has dedicated her life to facilitating Māori development. It is also home to two of Koro Tahi's children and their spouses, Nuki Tākao and David Sa'ena, Keri Tākao and Gaynor Rikihana; who are active supporters, mentors and advocates of the Māori language and culture. This support and contribution has been mostly as teachers of Te Reo Māori and tikanga through Te Ataarangi, Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology and Matike Mai. The family is also still heavily invested and involved in the health sector, with Gaynor’s involvement at Te Piki Oranga.

Pounamu is the home that Nana Tiny Bailey–Takao was raised in and the land beneath it has been occupied by this family for generations. As well as Pounamu being the home to those mentioned, this is also where the children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many others in the community have been welcomed, housed and cared for, where many memories are kept and where Māori values such as 'manaakitanga' and 'kaitiakitanga' are actively maintained on a daily basis.

Funds will go towards materials and labour needed to complete the renovations.