A $3 million upgrade of Otakou marae, 10 years in the making, was officially opened and blessed, on the 173rd anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi at Otakou, on June 13, 1840.
The significance of the date was not lost on the more than 200 people present yesterday.
Hapu representatives from throughout the South Island attended, along with Ngai Tahu leaders Sir Mark Solomon and Sir Tipene O'Regan, Otakou kaumatua Edward Ellison and Otakou runanga representative Tahu Potiki.
Sir Mark, chairman of Ngai Tahu tribal council Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu, unveiled a plaque at the entrance to the new wharekai (dining hall), named Hakuiao.
Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull was represented at the function by Cr Bill Acklin, who accepted the wero (challenge) from Jade Morgan during the 11am powhiri.
Mihi whakatau (the formal speeches of welcome) were given inside the wharenui (meeting house) by Sir Tipene and Mr Ellison, and followed other mihimihi (introductory speeches).
''It's a great pleasure for us here to welcome you all who have answered the call. It's also a time for us to remember our ancestors who paved the way for us and built the marae,'' Mr Ellison said.
''They set such a great example and it's our honour to be able to follow in those traditions for our generation and those to come.''
Te Runanga o Otakou manager Rachel Wesley said the project to upgrade facilities began in 2003.
The old wharekai was converted into a commercial kitchen and a new wing added to form a larger dining space.
A mezzanine added sleeping room, and a multipurpose room was built underneath. An ablution block was also upgraded.
''It's a huge lift for the marae and increases our capability to host manuhiri (guests) and put on events,'' Ms Wesley said.
It was the marae's first major upgrade in more than 20 years.
Contributions to the project came from Lottery Marae Heritage and Facilities, Ngai Tahu's marae development fund, various whanau trusts and many community groups and individuals.
Yesterday's opening was also a chance for guests to engage in a korero about the New Zealand Constitution. Sir Tipene led the afternoon discussion.
The King's and Queen's kapa haka group and other school pupils performed during the day.
Art displays and activities for children also featured.
