Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei announces $1.5M distribution to whānau

Organisations across the country are dealing with the challenges of COVID-19. Despite this, Tāmaki Makaurau hapū Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei has made the decision that this year will be no exception to its commitment to delivering returns to whānau.

The effects of Covid-19 has meant that many companies are looking to tighten belts, cut costs and re-assess what the future looks like, however the commercial arm of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, says it has maintained its position and delivered strong returns for whānau and Covid-19 will not impact on its ability to deliver the annual distribution of funds to its savings and investment programme, Toi Tupu. With over 3,000 of its members enrolled in the programme, the amount to be distributed will total over $1.5million.

Anahera Rawiri, Head of Culture and External Relations for Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa, says the decision to go ahead with the distribution despite the economic turbulence of COVID-19 highlights the organisation’s commitment to delivering for whānau, and its careful stewardship of its assets.
“There are tough times ahead for Aotearoa and like any company, we are not immune to the financial implications, but this investment is something that we were not willing to cut.

“Our Board has reviewed our business operations as a result of the current and anticipated economic downturn and is pleased to be in a position to be able to make Toi Tupu distributions this year. Our priority is ensuring we invest in the futures of our whānau and continue to protect and grow the asset base,” says Anahera.

Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, through its tribal development arm Whai Maia and the Ōrākei Marae, responded to the COVID-19 pandemic like the many communities across Aotearoa by equipping whānau with the support they needed to get through lockdown. Over 9,000 meals were delivered, kai packs, hygiene packs, 1,100 education packs (including 400 chrome books) and a significant increase in online delivery of resources (including online te reo classes for members from Aotearoa and around the world).

Whai Rawa recently announced it has resumed the sale of homes on its North Shore development, Oneoneroa. The sale of these homes and the subsequent stages will provide funding for the hapū to continue to grow.