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Te Kakano O Te Aroha Marae - History brief

The early settlers of the Lower Hutt area were in the domain of the local Maori people. As the settlers started to develop the area and expand out towards the domain of the local Maori residence this particular area was known then as Moe-i-te-ra translating to sleep in the sun. This name soon eventuated to Moera although shorter in terms of wording, the essence remained the same "sleep in the sun".

St Stephens Parish on Woburn Road had established a Sunday school hall in 1928 on Randwick road which years later is now our main hall "the church center" of Te Kakano O Te Aroha church Marae.

In Waiwhetu another church (St Luke's Parish) was established and they took over the hall and incorporated it as part of their new Parish in 1944 as their first meeting place. In time St Luke's built another church and the hall was later used as a play center for the local children.

1986 the Rev Ministers Eric & Meri Caton were seconded to the Pastorate that allowed them to use of the hall to preach the word of God in their services. St Luke's had intended to sell the property but they instead gifted the hall to the Pastorate. In poor state and need of repairs. A seed was sown that a new church Marae was to be built to offer a base for its new congregation and fellowship under the eyes of our lord. Truly inspired by this offer of good faith a Trust was setup and organized to begin its transformation. Led by people such as the Reverend John Murray, the late Sir John Marshall, the project was soon supported by the community, the Governor General Sir Paul Reeves and the many hands that made it all happen.

Totara stored at Te Maungarongo Marae in Ohope was transported down to Wellington and carved at the New Zealand Railways workshops by Master carver and Tohunga Barnie Rangitauia, the tukutuku panels in particular the large tukutuku mural depicting the last supper in the sanctuary with our lord Jesus Christ was skillfully crafted by Erana Manihera to whom a great many blessings and prayers has been bestowed upon them and their many helpers. Nga mihi nui kia koutou.

Continuing under the ever watchful eye of Reverend Eric Caton, the Marae was ready to play its part in the 150th anniversary celebrations of the first Presbyterian church service on New Zealand soil. The Marae although not quite completed, the celebrations were held and very much appreciated by the church. Over time Te Kakano O Te Aroha Marae has enjoyed a complete cycle serving its people under the Takarangi banner of love, peace and joy every day. Nga mihi.

The Marae is home to many people from all walks of life with many events and happenings continuing to carry our people now and into the new world under the fellowship of our lord.