Marae across South Auckland continue to be strengthened through Auckland Council funding, supporting them as places of culture, connection and everyday community support.
In Māngere-Ōtāhuhu, Ngā Whare Waatea, Pukaki, Makaurau and Papatuanuku Kōkiri Marae received a total of $400,000 in the 2026 funding round.
Their funding supports energy efficiency upgrades (lowering running costs), governance and management support (strengthening operations), and marae activation (community activities and programmes), alongside wider upgrades and capability work to support ongoing community delivery.
Councillor Lotu Fuli says the investment reflects the importance of marae as critical community infrastructure, “our Marae do amazing mahi in our wider community to support flood resilience, local schools, food insecurity and the environment, as well as connecting our community to Te ao Māori, culture and language.
“We have seen during times of crisis such as COVID and the floods how important our local Marae are, stepping in to provide shelter and support to our most vulnerable families in their time of need. This regional funding will help support Marae in this critical work that they continue to deliver for our Manukau Ward and South Auckland residents more broadly.”
Māngere-Ōtāhuhu local board chair Walter Togiamua says the support recognises the role of marae in delivering everyday services adds, “these are places where culture and community meet, integral to our community — and where investment makes a real difference on the ground.”
In Ōtara-Papatoetoe, Ngāti Ōtara Marae received $19,125 for digital infrastructure and investment.
A key place and tūrangawaewae (place to stand) since 1972, the marae has also received previous funding for repairs, capability and community activities. This supports ongoing programmes focused on rangatahi (youth), culture and whānau (family) wellbeing.
Councillor Alf Filipaina says the impact is visible at a local level adding, “This is why we have the Cultural Initiatives Fund, to support Marae who in turn support their communities and for Ngāti Ōtara - digital infrastructure and investment is crucial for a new build.”
Ōtara-Papatoetoe local board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia says marae investment supports long-term community strength. He says, “Marae play a vital role in our communities — they are places of learning, connection, and community activity, as well as places of refuge during times of emergency. Investing in infrastructure also means investing in our marae."
Auckland Council says the funding supports its commitment to Māori outcomes, helping strengthen identity, resilience and wellbeing in communities across Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland). More than $2.1 million has been approved for marae, papakāinga (housing developments that develop or improve housing) and Māori housing initiatives.
Across South Auckland, including Manurewa and Papakura, marae continue to receive support for upgrades, planning and community programmes.
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