Apply Now For Maori Television's Marae DIY!

PUBLICITY RELEASE
MONDAY OCTOBER 29 2007

APPLY NOW FOR MAORI TELEVISION'S MARAE DIY!

Applications are being sought for the new series of Maori Television's popular makeover show MARAE DIY which begins filming in February 2008.

Through the use of skilled labour and sponsorship for equipment and materials, the kaupapa of MARAE DIY has helped 31 marae around the country to stretch their precious putea that much further and knock out their five or 10-year plans in just four days.

Production company Screentime is calling for applications from marae all over the motu. And if selected, this is a chance to introduce your marae to the rest of Aotearoa through your people, stories and unique history.

The deadline for full applications has been extended to Monday November 12 - but first it is important to register an expression of interest with the show's producer, Nix Jaques, by Wednesday October 31.

Here's what some of the marae that have experienced being part of this kaupapa have said:

Pania Papa - Pohara Pa, Waikato: "Absolutely would do it again, in a flash. It's done huge things in terms of uplifting our marae community and hapu. I think it's brought the younger people closer to the old generation and it's closed that gap a little more. I also feel that it's given people a sense of pride."

Matai Smith - Manutuke Marae, Gisborne: "We did so much work, it seems so surreal - the wharenui, the dining room, the kitchen, the gardens, deck and courtyard. I walk around our marae today and think - wow, I was part of this and I did this with my kaumatua, my whanau and my cousins and it gives you a buzz. It really was a great thing for the people of Manutuke. Kia ora rawa atu."

Eru Thompson - Manurewa Marae, Manukau: "Marae need to go through this experience. Marae need to hear and see the spirit of what MARAE DIY is all about. Spiritually, there isn't a vehicle that provides what MARAE DIY has here in Manurewa."

So if you think your hapu have got what it takes to pick up the challenge, submit your tono today. Details can be found on the Screentime website www.screentime.co.nz or contact Nix Jaques on 09 303 3339 or email nix@screentime.co.nz.

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