Marae or Cultural Centre?

Will it be called a “Marae” or “Cultural Centre”?

MaraeMelbourne have sought wisdom from its Kaumatua Council and iwi authority in Aotearoa (New Zealand) as to the appropriate terminology for a marae in Melbourne Australia.

A “marae” in it’s traditional sense is a place of genealogical and ancestral linkage located within a particular geographical area in Aotearoa. In this respect, a marae in Melbourne is likely to be referred to as a New Zealand ‘Cultural Centre’.  It will however, essentially carry out many functions to those traditional marae back in Aotearoa.  The centre will enable us to meet as a community, facilitate programs and community services and, more importantly, enable us to maintain our culture and traditions.

Where will it be built?

The location of the marae is a major consideration and a critical part of the strategic planning.  Consideration will be given to:

• Central location – statistics indicate that the majority of New Zealand community reside in the northwest and southeast areas of Melbourne
• Accessibility to public transport
• Sustainability

Planning is still in progress to ensure that a suitable location is found.  This will include consultation with the local councils and state government.  All options will be considered before a final decision is made.

Whose tikanga and kawa (customs and protocol) will be practiced at the Marae?

Tikanga and kawa will be whichever iwi (tribe) is using the Marae at the time.