St+Michael's+Marae

On Thursday 19th November, the Ruahine team visited St Michael's marae in Ellesmere Crescent. We were welcomed on to the marae with a traditional powhiri. Moe (who is a cultural advisor at Palmerston North Hospital) and Mr Knyn spoke on behalf of Cloverlea School. We were all impressed when Mr Knyn spoke in Maori! Mr Downey played the guitar when we sang two waiata - Tutira Mai Nga Iwi and Utaina.

Mr Bill Larkins and Mr Doug Edmiston told us about the history of the church. Originally there was only a tiny building on Pembroke Street, which had to cope with being using for tangi, hui, weddings, dining and sleeping. Mr Hapai Winiata had a dream to build a new church. With the help of the City Council, the Fire Brigade, local whanau and a wide range of community groups, the new church was completed within one year! It is quite unique as it is a church that doubles as a whare.

The kowhaiwhai inside the church all have special significance. There are signs by each rib (rafter) which explains its meaning. media type="custom" key="4845777"