Our story 

He Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa was born from a moemoeā (vision) to create a space that reflects the collective aspirations of Ngāti Tūwharetoa whānau. It is a place where governance, partnership, and community engagement come alive, showcasing Tūwharetoa leadership and commitment to a prosperous future.  

This building is not just about bricks and mortar—it is a living expression of our connection to our whenua, taiao, cultural heritage, and shared goals for economic and social growth. It is a space where the past, present, and future intersect, honouring the wisdom of our tūpuna while paving the way for our uri whakatupu (future generations).

What makes He Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa unique? 

A cultural masterpiece 

The heart of He Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa lies in its design, which weaves together te reo Māori, tikanga, and artwork by talented Tūwharetoa artists such as Te Maari Gardiner, Haki Williams, Kingi Pitiroi, Te Manawa Williams and Len Hetet. These pieces, crafted by the innovative Human Dynamo Workshop in Wellington, tell the stories of our people and bring our cultural narratives into the modern world.  

• Ngā Mata o te Marama o Tūwharetoa – Celestial Moon Phases: Inspired by the wisdom of the late and respected Tūwharetoa kaumātua Te Kanawa Pitiroi, this installation highlights the importance of Māori astronomy and the lunar cycle, particularly during Matariki.  

• Celestial Waka: Located on Level 3, the Celestial Waka pays tribute to the ancestral wisdom of Ngatoroirangi and reflects the deep connection between Tūwharetoa and the celestial realms.  

• Te Kāhui Maunga: The ground floor features the Kāhui Maunga section, adorned with pou that represent the sacred maunga (mountains) and wai (waters) of Tūwharetoa. These embody our traditions and spiritual connection to the land.  

• Totara Pou: The journey through the building culminates with the Totara Pou, a symbol of our deep-rooted connection to the whenua and a reminder of the legacy we carry forward. 

A hub for collaboration 

He Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa is home to Tūwharetoa entities, including the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, Tūwharetoa Settlement Trust, and Ngāti Tūwharetoa Fisheries Charitable Trust. It also houses Taupō District Council, Amplify, and Love Taupō. This co-location strengthens relationships, enables collaboration, and creates a unified space for decision-making and community engagement.  

Economic growth and opportunity 

As a long-term Tūwharetoa investment, the building aims to generate sustainable economic returns that will support future projects, initiatives, and grants for the benefit of Tūwharetoa whānau. It also contributes to Taupō’s economic development, creating jobs and attracting investment to the region.  

Why He Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa matters 

• Whānau: Created with the input and vision of Tūwharetoa whānau, this space empowers our people to take an active role in decision-making and governance.
• Cultural legacy: It is a place where mokopuna can connect with their cultural identity and the leadership legacy of their tūpuna.
• Community impact: Serving both Tūwharetoa and the wider Taupō community, the building centralises key services improving efficiencies and creating stronger bonds between iwi and community. 
• Economic benefits: A carefully planned, long-term investment for Tūwharetoa, the building supports initiatives that benefit our people and the region for generations to come. 

Timeline 

• May 2023: Construction began
• January 2025: Building completed and prepared for occupancy
• March 2025: Official opening, blessing ceremony, and kaimahi working from site. 

FAQs

What is He Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa? 

It is a landmark building in Taupō that serves as a hub for governance, culture, and community engagement. Owned by Te Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa Limited Partnership, it houses Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, Tūwharetoa Settlement Trust, and Ngāti Tūwharetoa Fisheries Charitable Trust, as well as Taupō District Council, economic development agency Amplify, and destination marketing agency Love Taupō.   

Who is involved in the project? 

The whare was established and is owned by Te Whare Hono ō Tūwharetoa Limited Partnership, a body created to lead the project that includes the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, Tūwharetoa Settlement Trust, Tauhara Properties Limited, Tupu Angitu Limited, Ngāti Tūwharetoa Fisheries Holdings Limited, and Lake Rotoaira Trust.  

It was built in collaboration with Taupō District Council, Watts and Hughes, DCA Architects, and Egmont Dixon. 

What is the purpose of the building? 

The building serves as a space for governance, collaboration, and community, reflecting the cultural identity of Tūwharetoa and supporting community economic and social growth.  

How does the building benefit Tūwharetoa whānau and hapū? 

It empowers whānau and hapū by providing a space for iwi decision-making and governance, while also generating sustainable long-term economic returns that support initiatives benefiting our people.  

What is the significance of the building’s artwork? 

The artwork, including Ngā Mata o te Marama o Tūwharetoa, the Celestial Waka, Kāhui Maunga pou, and the Totara Pou, celebrate the cultural heritage of Tūwharetoa, ancestral wisdom of Ngatoroirangi, and our connection to whenua and te taiao.