Mangahanea Marae, Māori meeting grounds in Ruatoria, New Zealand
Mangahanea Marae is a meeting place in Ruatoria with a main house called Hinetapora and a dining hall named Rutu Tawhiorangi, both featuring carved decorations and traditional woven wall panels. These two buildings form the heart of the site and display craftwork typical of such gathering spaces.
The main house was built starting in the 1880s by skilled craftspeople from the local tribe and finished by the end of the century. The land received special protection as a tribal reserve in 1947 and has remained protected since then.
This place belongs to descendants of Ngāti Porou and Ngāti Uepohatu, who gather here for important occasions and ceremonies. The marae embodies a living tradition for several connected tribal groups sharing their heritage together.
The site sits north of Gisborne and is best reached by private transport following local directions. Visitors should check access conditions in advance, as this is an active community gathering place.
Two craftsmen from the local tribe led the construction of the main house from the start and brought specialized knowledge passed through generations. Their work from that era remains visible today in the carving details throughout the building.
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