One of the first urban marae in the country and once the target of an arson attack, Araiteuru, will celebrate is 30th birthday on Waitangi Day.
More than 400 people were expected to celebrate the birthday and Waitangi Day festivities of the Dunedin-based pan-tribal marae, vice-chairwoman Chris Maxwell, said.
The celebrations would begin with a mihiwhakatau (official welcome), and include kapa haka, games, sports and music.
Members were also asked to bring flags to adorn the marae, and wear decorated hats as part of a competition.
However, the event was only open to groups and individuals affiliated with the marae, she said.
The idea of an urban marae for Dunedin had been mooted since the mid-1960s, but the Shetland St marae was not officially opened until February 10, 1980, when it became one of the first urban marae in the country.
The marae was the target of an arson on August 18, 1997 with the phrase "enough is enough" written in green fluorescent paint on the building.
No-one was apprehended.
It was decided to rebuild the marae and the present building was opened in 2003, she said.
