The rewards are great for those involved in the partnership between EIT Tairāwhiti and Te Runanga o Ngāti Porou.While there are the obvious benefits of scholarships and qualifications for those on the level three and four courses, there is also the personal reward in helping communities restore their marae.

Tikitiki-based EIT Tairāwhiti carpentry tutor Paki Dewes thanked everyone who had made it possible for the programmes to happen as they did on the coast.

He said it was a great honour to teach the courses – a big change and a challenge, but one he thoroughly enjoys.

The hospitality Paki’s team had received at Te Horo Marae had been awesome.

“We would sit down and listen to the stories . . . we don’t hear that korero very often these days and it was good for us all.”

It was good to be reminded of the whakapapa and the links between both sides of the river that used to be joined by a bridge, but were no longer.

Paki said they were all looking forward to getting started at Tikapa Marae.

“It is a big job but there is a good feeling over here,” he said.

As a youngster, Paki had been in the last group to go through the Māori Affairs trade training programme.

“I am very proud of that,” he said.

It was quite different to how things run today though, with usually just four students to a single tutor.

“We were lucky we had a lot more time spent on us,” he said.

However, the students of today were also extremely lucky in being given the opportunity as well as scholarships, to better themselves.

“I worked hard to get what I have and when I see what you have, it is huge. It is a big step forward for you in your career, so take it and make the most of it.”

In congratulating his graduates and welcoming his new students, Dewes had a little advice for all.

“Congratulations to our level three boys – the journey has been hard and long.”
He cautioned the new crew in saying they had to take the growlings they received and learn from them. Once was ok, twice was just acceptable, but he didn’t expect to have to correct things three times.

“Rules are in place for a reason and they set a standard. If you get a growling, pick yourself up and get on with it. There are no shortcuts in this industry – everything has to be done properly.”

The marae work is “the real thing”.

“This is not woodwork class or a workshop. It is no use building something that is going to last a couple of years.”

The team would be leaving buildings and work at the marae they could all be proud of, and would benefit communities for generations to come.