Community Developments

In the period of the 1920’s to 1940’s, small dairy farms and large gardens gave some income to large families. There was no road and deliveries were made daily on the Fuller’s “Cream Trip,” which also picked up milk, cream and mail around the Bay of Islands. Special trips were made by horse or foot to the road to visit towns and neighbouring settlements for Church services, tangi, hui and celebrations. Access to medical help meant that traditional medicine and home remedies were used first. It was a time that was economically difficult, but socially vibrant.

The 1950's and 60's saw a huge change in our community. Dairy farm subsidies reduced; industry was encouraged so jobs were available in the towns and cities; children grew up, were educated and moved to employment opportunities. Whanau came and went often at Te Rawhiti. Mostly only Kuia and Kaumatua stayed permanently with their moko, though people returned for hui. By 1964, only 8 children were at school. During the holidays, large numbers of whanau returned to enjoy the natural beauty and benefits of hau kainga. These holidays were at great cost as there was still no road.

After 35 years of letter writing by the Te Rawhiti Tribal Committee to local and national government, and the requests by Pakeha land owners, particularly Otto Sommervel, the Kokinga owner, the road began. He paid for the road to go past his place and down to Omakiwi, so he had access there, and despite requests to have the road go around the back of the School with the entry past the Hakaraia property at Whiorau, Sommervel's money was most persuasive.

The road, established in 1970 and the Marae renovation completed in 1974, began the return of whanau to Te Rawhiti.

The social, economic and historical environment of these earlier times provided a social and emotional imprint on the present community.