Ripeka Hokamau was the original nurse when Te Hauora o Ngāti Rārua was founded. At the end of June we farewelled Ripeka as Pou Oranga. Her legacy is one grounded in manaakitanga and advocacy for whānau health.  

Her career has taken her many places, but Ripeka took a moment to acknowledge and remember those who supported/uplifted her when she first stepped into the role - Kuia & Koroua who are no longer with us. She special mention of the awhi and support of Auntie Keupe Stafford Fairest. 

She also acknowledged the kaimahi  who were also moving on during this time of change: Abbeylee Epiha, Whirimako Hills, Kerri Rimene, Hari Wikingi-Martin and Anne Hampton (retiring).

Warm speeches from Molly Luke, Lee Luke, Michelle Lavender & Lorraine Eade not only thanked Ripeka for her mahi but also reflected on the creation of Hauora and how it has progressed. Current kaimahi Ron Riwaka, Helen Tugia, Daniel Du Toit, Anne Hampton and Claudia Chapman also gave speeches. 

Due to the weather emergency there were a few apologies, but in true Te Hauora o Ngāti Rārua style, the excess food was given to those housed at Omaka Marae, who had been affected by the flooding and had to evacuate. 

Pouwhakahaere Shane Graham said : “On behalf of whānau and Te Runanga o Ngāti Rārua we express our sincerest thanks and appreciation to Ripeka and the board  for their mahi. Ngā mihi whaimana ki a koutou.” 

Kia atawhaitia i te tangata i muri i a ahau, kia pai te noho hei te Tauihu.