Te Wharenui ‘Ngākau Māhaki’ opened in March 2009. Master carver Lyonel Grant (Te Arawa) created a marae for the 21st Century. Unitec’s Lecturer in Raranga, Judy Robson-Deane(Nga Puhi), provided the expertise and guidance for the harakeke that adorns the walls. Lyonel’s aim was to create a national treasure to be admired by those who enter its embrace or place of solace for those who need it.
Puukenga, previously known as the School of Māori Studies, has become the ‘kainga o Māia’. The home of Māia’s operations, administration, a study space, teaching space, wharekai and whanaungatanga space for students, staff and visitors.
Māia Hub is a dedicated study space, where students are able to access Academic Development Lecturers for academic support, a space for workshops, computer access and meeting with other students.
Pa harakeke, beside the peaceful stream, are clusters of flax bushes planted and cared for by Raranga students and whanau. Other native plants and trees compliment this tranquil environment.