The building’s name, Tūterakiwhanoa, was gifted by Te Runanga o Arowhenua and represents the Kai Tahu ancestor who, according to pūrākau (Māori creation stories) brought habitation to Te Waipounamu (the South Island).
Representatives from manawhenua, led by Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua upoko (head) Te Wera King, officially blessed the $2.5million building on Friday , offering a karakia whakatuwhera to signify the commencement of something new.
In a statement regional executive director and Ara Business Division lead Darren Mitchell said the new building would provide a more contemporary learning environment.
"[It will be] reflective of the expectation of a modern educational facility and mimicking what can be found in the workplace.
"It will allow for larger class sizes to suit forecast growth with better work zones and will ultimately lead to a far better learning experience for students."
He said the project builds on the district’s strong history in the engineering, welding and fabrication fields, based around the rural sector and the port.
"This investment demonstrates our commitment and should bring confidence to the region around the ability students to learn in modern, fit-for-purpose facilities at a local level."
At approximately 780sqm, Tūterakiwhanoa replaced the facilities which dated back to the 1960s.
It will provide a mix of engineering spaces for activities for multiple learning streams, including gas and electric welding, lathe and machining and fabrication.
It will allow Ara to expand its training options, provide improved space for learning and the flexibility to replace and change equipment in the future to meet the changing needs of industry.
The design and build was led by Colin Shore Builders.
The project also utilised local contractors where possible, including local architect John Rushton.
Friday’s ceremony marked the transition from building site to new build, ready for fit-out and the arrival of ākonga (students) in the weeks ahead.
A formal opening will be held once it is fully operational.
