07/09/2018

Ngati Oneone and Gisborne District Council have been awarded $6.1 million from the Provincial Growth Fund (PGF) for the Titirangi Summit development, one of the highlights within the Tairāwhiti Navigations Programme.

Regional economic development Minister Shane Jones today confirmed the successful joint funding application.

The investment will enable the Titirangi Summit upgrade, including a new multi-use Whare Wānanga (learning/gathering space) and panoramic viewing facility, carpark, landscaping and furniture, offering a unique visitor experience at one of the region’s most iconic locations.

Shane Jones says it is the pinnacle of three Tairāwhiti Navigations projects supported by the PGF, which together have the potential to contribute around 44 jobs to the region.

“The PGF funding will help to increase productivity and tourism opportunities in Tairāwhiti by showcasing and celebrating the unique culture and navigational heritage of the region.

“The programme aims to bring together the voyaging, arrival and settlement histories from two cultures and provide a world-class heritage experience at key sites based around the Gisborne inner harbour.”

The project aims to unify the Titirangi maunga from the base to the summit, in a meaningful way that acknowledges its history and significance to Ngati Oneone, Tairāwhiti and Aotearoa.

Ngati Oneone are pleased that their stories of mana whenua over Titirangi Maunga and the harbour (where they once domiciled) will soon begin to be realised. The project adds to Ngati Oneone aspirations to address cultural and physical needs within their domain whilst preparing for financial benefits for their uri (people) through tourism. Hapu representatives along with Council representatives have worked well to get the project this far.

Council chief executive Nedine Thatcher Swann says she is grateful for the Government’s support to realise the aspirations of the Tairāwhiti Navigations programme.

“Not only do these projects enhance the significant landmarks in this area, but they help tell the many stories of our place and our history over 1000 years, to include both early Maori arriving on waka and Endeavour’s arrival in 1769.”

The PGF will also invest a further $1.6 million towards the Puhi Kai Iti / Cook’s Landing site upgrade. This is a partnership project between the Department of Conservation, Ngati Oneone and Council.

DOC East Coast operations manager John Lucas says it is an exciting opportunity to celebrate, share and ultimately benefit from our unique and rich navigation history.

The Tairāwhiti Navigations Programme is expected to be complete in time for the 250 year commemoration events in October 2019.

ENDS

© Scoop Media