Tapu Te Ranga Marae, Maori cultural center in Island Bay, New Zealand
Tapu Te Ranga Marae is a Maori cultural center in Island Bay, constructed from recycled materials including shipping crates and salvaged timber. The site covers an expansive area divided into separate structures that blend into the hillside terrain.
This site was founded in 1974 as a response to the needs of Maori people facing challenges in Wellington's urban setting. It emerged as a dedicated space to support and strengthen community bonds during a period of social change.
This space serves as a gathering place where traditional Maori knowledge and practices are shared through everyday activities and workshops. Visitors can observe how the community uses the site to teach and pass down skills to younger generations.
The site covers a large area with multiple sections spread across the slope, best explored on foot at a comfortable pace. It is worth allowing sufficient time to walk through the different parts and take in the layout of the structures.
The site incorporates recycled shipping containers from Japan and stained glass installations salvaged from demolished buildings. This creative use of discarded materials gives the structures a distinctive visual character.
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