There was a good number of St Martins kaimahi who were keen to connect with the marae and the tangata whenua and learn more about the local iwi and history.
After we were welcomed onto the marae, we were able to sit down and share morning tea with our hosts, getting to know them.
We were fortunate to learn about the meanings and symbolism of the beautiful carvings in the new whare whakairo and the stories of the local iwi.
After lunch, we were taken on a local history hikoi, taking a walk around the area as we learnt the history of the people of Rāpaki. It was a wonderful experience and we are excited to build on this new relationship with Rāpaki Marae.