Marae across Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai once again played a vital role as places of shelter, coordination and care for communities during and following severe weather events this year.
Council worked closely with marae to support emergency activation, recognising that marae are not only cultural centres, but trusted community anchor points with deep local reach.
This included strengthening communications infrastructure to support connectivity during emergencies, alongside emergency supplies and other resources that help marae coordinate and sustain community response efforts when they are needed most.
This mahi highlighted the importance of readiness, trust and partnership before crises occur, so that when they do, communities can respond swiftly and collectively.
Looking ahead
Te Herenga Kairangi continues to guide how Council works, listens and learns. As the strategy becomes more embedded across the organisation, the focus remains on doing the right things, in the right way, for the long term.
The progress of the past year reinforces a simple principle: when Māori perspectives and leadership are centred, outcomes are stronger - for Council, for communities, and for the city as a whole.