PHOTO: Sunbather. FILE
The unveiling of the new Waitārere Beach Surf Life Saving Community Facility Te Whare Waitā has enhanced the beauty and safety of the Waitārere Beach coastline. The community will officially open this valuable asset with a karakia, pōwhiri to welcome guests, and the symbolic handing over of the key. Following this, a public open day is scheduled for Saturday, December 2, from 10 am to 12 pm.
Translated as ‘the house of Waitā,’ Te Whare Waitā draws its name from Waitā, a star in the Matariki constellation associated with the ocean and sea-derived sustenance. This celestial connection symbolizes a commitment to safeguarding our salt waters and their inhabitants, making it a fitting name for the facility housing the Waitārere Surf Life Saving Club.
Mayor Bernie Wanden expresses gratitude, stating, “Our community has advocated for this for more than a decade, and witnessing the realization of the aspirations of all involved, especially the surf lifesaving community, is truly remarkable. The stunning new building, boasting one of the best views in Horowhenua, is poised to serve our community for many years.”
Waitārere Beach Surf Life Saving Community Facility Te Whare Waitā
Functioning as the headquarters of the Surf Life Saving Club, the facility will support lifesaving patrols, rescue operations, and training. Notable features include a patrol tower, training rooms for surf development and youth beach safety education, a kitchen for community events, changing rooms, toilets, showers, a First Aid room, and storage facilities for rescue and training equipment. Additional amenities encompass a deck, patio, BBQ area, outside rinse showers, and a washdown forecourt.
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Construction, initiated in November 2022, was successfully completed by Council contractor Homestead Construction.
Mayor Bernie extends appreciation to all contributors, including community advocates, partners at the Waitārere Beach Surf Life Saving Club, representatives of Ngāti Huia ki Matau, Ngāti Huia ki Poroutawhao, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, and the contractor Homestead Construction.
Waitārere Surf Life Saving Club chairman Andrew Parkin expresses the significance of Te Whare Waitā to the community, anticipating improved services for beachgoers and the creation of lasting memories at the new site.
Simultaneously, developments at the Waitārere Beach carpark are underway, enhancing the current site at the end of Waitārere Beach Road. This upgrade, funded by a $500,000 grant from Horowhenua District Council’s Better Off Funding, includes new public toilet facilities, outdoor showers, a picnic area, a concrete footpath, carpark resurfacing, and new line markings. The completion of these enhancements is anticipated by March 2024.