Lower Hutt — June 4, 2026 — Two new marae-based projects in the Eastern Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions have received funding under the Government’s Māori Climate Platform, strengthening community preparedness and resilience against severe weather events and emergencies.
Climate Change Minister Simon Watts announced that Stage 2 of the initiative has now provided more than $10 million in funding across 57 marae nationwide. “Marae play a vital role as community hubs and places of refuge, and this kind of practical investment helps maintain essential services during floods, power disruptions, and other emergencies,” Watts said.
The latest projects include solar power and battery systems at Kokohinau and Uiraroa Marae, as well as upgrades across Kaputahi, Te Kauae, Korapatu, and Mirumiru ki Marokopa marae. These investments will ensure marae can remain operational during crises, providing safe shelter and emergency resources for their communities.
During his visit to Waiwhetū Marae in Lower Hutt, Watts highlighted how Stage 2 funding is supporting solar installations at the wharenui, kōhanga reo, and Te Māori Cultural Centre, alongside a dedicated water storage system for emergency drinking water. More than $520,000 in funding is enabling Waiwhetū Marae to operate as a Civil Defence hub.
The Māori Climate Platform, administered by the Ministry for the Environment, has already delivered $3.58 million in Stage 1 pilot projects and $7.25 million in Stage 2 funding. Together, these investments are helping marae across 11 regions build resilience, reduce reliance on external systems, and prepare for future climate challenges.
