Blessing held for new aquatic facility
Before it opened to the public later last week, a blessing of Stratford’s new aquatic centre was led by Nga¯ruahine, Nga¯ti Ruanui and Nga¯ti Maru on Monday, September 10.
Stratford District Mayor Neil Volzke, project team members, local MPs, councillors, staff and representatives for the various user groups attended the blessing.
Neil says the blessing was a significant moment in the project’s journey.
“We acknowledge the collective effort required to complete a project of this size.”
An initial blessing for the construction site was led by iwi with Stratford District Council back in February 2021, prior to the start of building work on the site.
Taranaki artist WharehokaSmith was present at the blessing and spoke briefly about his artwork, which is featured across the front of the building. He explained it helps share a story that honours local tu¯puna Ruapu¯tahanga and speaks to the purpose of the centre — a place of leisure and recreation, education, wellness and competition.