March 16, 2018
Rotorua iwi expands city footprint
Ngati Whakaue tribal trust Pukeroa-Oruawhata today opened the third stage of its Trade Central development in the heart of Rotorua, with Kmart as its anchor tenant.
As a mark of the partnership the organisations co-commissioned Paki Wilson from Ngati Whakaue to carve three pou for the front of the store, which is built on the site of a former Post Office works depot.
The store also features window designs acknowledging the eight tribes of Rotorua.
Maori Development Minister Nanaia Mahuta says it’s a great economic and social investment by the tribe in the city and its people,” says Minister Mahuta.
Pukeroa-Oruawhata Group has created more than 650 jobs across its developments including more than 250 jobs at the Trade Central site.
Kmart employs more than 100 locals including Ngati Whakaue descendants.
The trust now has a $230 million asset base.
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