Business Central July 2026

Volume 11| Issue 3 | July 2026 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Primed for property Occupy Property Management has carved out a successful niche in Taranaki’s rental property market...  Page 09

2 | Contents 14|Future proof Massey University’s new veterinary research and teaching facility caps off the school’s upgrade . 72| Linked in A new purpose-built depot in Palmerston North is set to anchor Bascik Transport’s nationwide freight model. 115 | Marae milestone The refurbishment of Waimārama Marae has marked a significant milestone for the Hawke’s Bay community, 72 115 14 Kiwirail ��03 Toyota NZ ��04 Occupy Property Management ��09 Taranaki Cancer Centre| ��10 Kaweka Health ��12 Massey University ��14 Medispace ��17 Te Ara Whetu ��18 Homestead Construction ��20 Hiringa Energy ��24 Suzuki NZ ��25 Humphries Developments: ��26 Whanganui Airport ��27 Toa Developments ��28 Gisborne Holdings ��30 Wallace Development Company ��32 Craggy Range ��34 Baylis Bros ��42 Bostock ��44 Riley Brothers Construction ��46 Mike Walker Management ��47 Hillmac Electrical ��48 Tararua Alliance ��49 Mitre 10 Dannevirke ��50 Mitre 10 MEGA Masterton ��51 Cleanline Tasman ��52 Foster Development ��54 Entire Engineering ��56 Fieldair Engineering ��57 Russet ��58 Orogen ��62 Higgins Concrete ��64 Morden ��65 Eastown Buildlink ��66 Inglewood Timber Processors ��67 Saathof Forestry Services ��68 Deadman Logging ��70 McCarthy Transport ��71 Bascik Transport ��72 Quality Pumping ��74 Laser Plumbing and Electrical Napier ��75 MaxTarr ��76 Alex Hyland Plumbing ��77 BR Turfrey ��78 Taranaki Powdercoating ��80 A P Plumbing & Gasfitting ��81 Harkness Electrical ��82 Best Insulation ��83 Rouse Contracting ��84 Goodrick Contracting ��85 FH Group ��86 Nest Corp ��87 Crosson Architects ��88 Davor Popadich Architects ��89 Makers of Architecture ��90 Architecture Workshop ��91 S&T Wellington ��92 Thrive Architecture ��93 Wyatt*Chang ��94 Ardmore Architects ��94 VOID Studio ��95 Kalos Windows & Doors ��96 FINZ Carpentry ��97 Venture Build ��98 GJ Gardner Homes Whanganui ��99 Kalindale Builders ��100 Eternal Build ��102 Hayden Homes ��103 Taylor Construction ��104 Tyla Mepham Construction ��105 Platinum Homes Hawkes Bay ��106 SJL Construction ��109 KB Gleeson Building ��110 SJP Builders ��110 Landmark Homes Wellington ��111 New Construction ��112 DeckedOut Building ��112 Design Builders Hawke’s Bay ��114 Waimārama Marae ��115 Tawa Anglican Church: ��116 Opunake High School ��117 St Josephs Dannevirke ��118 Napier Boys’ High School ��118 Awapuni Racecourse ��119 Organic Flour Mills ��119 OUR PARTNERS: Christchurch Office 112 Wrights Road, Addington, Christchurch Phone 03-983 5500 PO Box 37 346 www.waterfordpress.co.nz Queenstown Office 70 Glenda Drive, Queenstown 9300 #businesscentral #yourstory www.waterfordpress.co.nz   T&C’s: These conditions are prescribed for the sake of understanding between the Waterford Press Ltd and its clients. 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| 3 T TKaren Phelps On track for the future in Wellington Central to the vision will be the arrival of 18 new, five-car hybrid battery-electric trains from 2028/29. Kiwirail, Downer Construction: Wellington Metro Substation upgrade Bulk Cartage of all aggregates • Spoils Disposals • Logistics Supporting Downer NZ Projects & KiwiRail. Contact Milton 027 368 5404 gladstonecartage@gmail.com Supplying conduit spacing & ducting solutions to the electrical, communication, water and gas industries. Corys! NZ Sole Distributor of the Spacer Company Duct Spacers For all your needs. commercial fencing Matt Purdy 90 Naples St, Martinborough M. 021 024 43101 E. O ce@taylorfencing.co.nz Taylor Fencing LTD www.taylorfencing.co.nz REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Modernising a rail network while keeping a capital city moving is no small task, yet that is exactly what KiwiRail is delivering through its ambitious Wellington Metro programme. With more than $1.1 billion of government funding invested across the region, the upgrades are reshaping how people and goods move through the lower North Island, positioning rail as a cornerstone of economic growth and a low-carbon transport future. At the heart of it is Wellington Metro, which already supports more than 14 million passenger journeys each year. “A good, reliable train service is the bread and butter of a vibrant and connected region,” says general manager Wellington Metro Andy Lyon. “What we are doing now is building a network that can handle the demands of tomorrow, with faster, more frequent services and modern trains that people will choose to use.” Central to that vision will be the arrival of 18 new, five-car hybrid battery-electric trains from 2028/29. Andy says these will transform services on the Wairarapa and Manawatū lines, doubling Wairarapa services from 10 to 20 per day by 2030, and replacing the long-standing Capital Connection with a more frequent timetable. “These new trains will be a step change,” says Andy. “They are faster, more efficient and better for the environment, and they allow us to run more services, more often.” To support them, a vast programme of infrastructure work is underway. More than $260 million has been invested in upgrading the Wairarapa Line alone, including extensive track renewals and major works in the Remutaka Tunnel. Safety improvements at 26 level crossings are almost complete, with modern barriers and signalling expected to be fully operational by 2027. Work is also advancing on five new substations to power the next generation of trains, and design is underway for the Manawatū Line upgrade between Waikanae and Palmerston North. This includes new passing loops, a stabling yard and charging facilities, and platform improvements. “These projects are not just about trains,” says Andy. “They are about creating capacity, improving safety and making the whole system more resilient.” Across the region, maintenance crews have been tackling long-overdue upgrades, including stabilising slopes, repairing bridges and replacing ageing track and level crossings. Some of these bigger maintenance projects require uninterrupted time on the line, which means disruption to passengers. KiwiRail manages this in collaboration with Greater Wellington Regional Council by planning shutdowns over weekends and holidays when there are fewer people commuting. “We know disruptions can be frustrating,” says Andy. “But doing the work this way is the safest and most efficient approach. Every section we renew improves reliability and reduces the likelihood of unplanned outages in the future.” He says that in addition to catering to commuters, the rail network plays a vital role in supporting Wellington’s wider economy. Freight moved through KiwiRail’s Aotea Quay container terminal connects road and rail links across the country, while the Interislander ferries, which act as an extension of State Highway 1, carry nearly half a million passengers and more than 550,000 tonnes of freight across Cook Strait each year. “Rail is fundamental to regional prosperity,” says Andy. “It connects communities, brings visitors into the city, and supports businesses by moving goods efficiently.” Tourism is also a growing part of the picture, with rail journeys and ferry services delivering domestic and international visitors directly into Wellington’s CBD, supporting hospitality, retail and major events. The Wellington Metro upgrade programme is earmarked for completion by 2029, in time for the new trains and expanded timetables. While maintenance will always be part of running a live network, Andy says the scale of current investment is expected to significantly lift performance and reliability. “We are seeing continual improvements. This is about future-proofing the network so it can support population growth, reduce congestion and play a leading role in New Zealand’s transition to a more resilient, lower-emissions transport system.”

4 | Toyota NZ T TKaren Phelps Serving the country from P North The decision to base Toyota New Zealand’s National Customer Centre (NCC) in the region reflects a longer-term strategy that focuses on efficiency, talent development and regional growth. T T Regional network - page 6 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT For many years Palmerston North has been the strategic anchor point for Toyota New Zealand. As a national logistics hub, the decision to base Toyota New Zealand’s National Customer Centre (NCC) in the region reflects a longerterm strategy that focuses on efficiency, talent development and regional growth rather than short-term cost considerations, says Toyota New Zealand CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa. “Palmerston North is a convenient location and a deliberate strategic choice that allows us to serve the whole country better,” he says. “We have invested here because it enables us to strengthen customer service, streamline distribution and build long-term capability in a growing logistics hub.” He says the city’s central position has made it an increasingly important node in New Zealand’s transport and freight networks. With strong road and rail connections and proximity to major distribution routes, it provides an ideal base for national coordination. Toyota’s NCC has been designed to support the flow of vehicles, parts and accessories across the country with precision and reliability. Mr Ishikawa explains that the decision to establish such a significant presence in Palmerston North was based on future- focused thinking. “It is about building resilience into our supply chain and making sure customers across New Zealand receive consistent, reliable service regardless of location. That requires infrastructure that is purpose-built for scale and adaptability,” he says. A key factor in Toyota’s regional success has been its connection with local education and talent pipelines. The presence of Massey University in the city has provided access to graduates in logistics, engineering, business and supply chain disciplines, helping Toyota develop skilled professionals locally. “We see strong alignment with Massey University in terms of developing future capability,” says Mr Ishikawa. “Working with local institutions allows us to grow talent here in Manawatū and offer long-term careers without requiring people to relocate to larger cities.” This connection has helped Toyota New Zealand embed itself more deeply in the regional economy. The company’s presence supports skilled employment, local suppliers and service providers. “It is important that our investment delivers value beyond our own operations. We are part of the community, and we want to contribute to its future growth and resilience,” says Mr Ishikawa. He says the NCC is set up to ensure Toyota’s nationwide operations run smoothly and supports the Toyota Store network in more than 60 locations across the country. From this base, movement of vehicles and parts is easily coordinated, meaning customers receive service and support quickly and reliably. “We are focused on making sure that every customer experience is consistent, whether they are in a major city or a rural community. Palmerston North allows us to do that effectively and at scale.” YOUR TRUSTED EV CHARGER INSTALLERS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES Recommended Local EV Charger Installers Just Bought an Electric Vehicle? Let Us Install Your Charger. Scan the QR Code to Call Now 0800 4 2 TILL tootill.co.nz Or Contact: team@tootill.co.nz *Wallbox EV chargers supplied via Toyota Manawatu

A New Standard in Creative. We’re a Manawatū-based media production house reshaping how creative media is done in our region. No tired formulas or outdated thinking just fresh ideas, sharp execution, and work that lands not just locally but to a national & international standard. We partner with brands, agencies, and forward-thinkers who want to stand out, not blend in. Everything we create is strategy-led, culturally aware, and built to cut through. LET’S TALK! Andy Kruy - AK CREATIVE 0274926395 hello@andykruy.co.nz www.andykruy.co.nz Built on passion. Driven by collaboration. Focused on impact. AUTOMOTIVE → AGRICULTURE → COMMERCIAL → REAL ESTATE → HOSPITALITY → TOURISM → FASHION → PRODUCT PHOTO VIDEO DESIGN SOCIAL With Toyota NZ’s headquarters based in the Manawatū, there have been distinct bene ts for the company in using local talent, for example through the work of businesses such as Andy Kruy Creative. Manawatū born and bred, AK Creative provides a variety of media services for the global brand, demonstrating that world-class content can be produced straight from the regions. Photography and design began as a hobby for Andy when he was 27, capturing images during his travels. From there he quickly moved into portraits and weddings as people he knew started requesting his services, and his work grew organically. Based in the Manawatū, where word of mouth travels fast, he soon began receiving requests for video work as well. “Starting out I had to be diverse to make the business work,” he explains. While building his business, Andy was working in marketing which provided him with a di erent take on media compared to other vendors in the region, and allowed him to expand his skillset into di erent niches and industries. He says the advantage of Toyota using a local professional is not only cost-e ectiveness but also timeliness. “Organising an out-of-town photographer can be slow and expensive, particularly when quick turnarounds are required,” explains Andy. Andy now manages and produces the content for Toyota New Zealand’s motorsport arm, Toyota Gazoo Racing New Zealand, covering two race categories: the Castrol Toyota Formula Regional Oceania Trophy and the Bridgestone GR86 Championship covering photography, video and design services. He also delivers high-end studio vehicle photography for Toyota for billboard and advertising campaigns. “Those billboards you see with photos of Toyota cars, those are done in Palmerston North,” he says with pride. “Toyota Japan has also requested the use of some of those images globally. So the work is at a global standard and we are grateful for Toyota’s continued support in enabling Manawatū businesses like us to do some epic stu and push the region forward.” Andy’s background in competitive sport continues to shape the way he works. Representing New Zealand in athletics instilled a relentless drive to improve, a mindset closely aligned with Kaizen, Toyota’s principle of continuous, incremental progress across every aspect of life and work. “It’s about always striving to do better and raising the standard. That mindset sits at the core of how I approach business, not only pushing myself, but encouraging my clients to adopt the same philosophy so we’re all improving together.” His services extend nationwide, having worked with some major national and global brands/organisations in a variety of industries such as Lexus, Porsche, One NZ, Yamaha, Kubota, Liebherr, Fonterra, NZ Defence Force and NZ Police to name a few. This dedication also extends to the customer experience, with technology streamlining bookings and communications. “We produce high-quality work but we care about the whole process, making things easy for our clients to work with us,” he explains. Supported by a small, specialised team, Andy continues to demonstrate that high-calibre media production does not need to come from a major city. “We take pride in delivering high-quality visual work from the Manawatū. I love living here and it's about producing premium results both for the region and from it. I’m always looking to innovate and keep things fresh, pushing media to another level and lifting the standard. From racetracks to real estate there’s no reason why media in the Manawatū shouldn’t sit alongside the very best in New Zealand.” Local Talent Drives Global Media Standards at Toyota NZ

6 | Across the country Toyota New Zealand operates a network of more than 60 stores that function not only as retail outlets but as community hubs. These locations support its customers, community initiatives and regional economies while connecting directly into the company’s National Customer Centre (NCC) based in Palmerston North. “Our independent store network is a fundamental part of how we stay close to customers,” says Toyota New Zealand CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa. “Each store and its team is deeply involved with its local community and together the stores form a national system that ensures mobility is accessible and reliable for all New Zealanders.” Toyota stores across New Zealand actively contribute to local sponsorships, community events and regional programmes. At the same time, they are supported by centralised logistics and service systems that ensure consistency in parts supply and customer experience nationwide. Tatsuya explains that the integration between local stores and national infrastructure is essential. “Our store network works hard at a community and national level to build relationships and maintain long-term trust with customers. Our customers expect reliability and that requires coordination between every part of our network,” he says. That reliability is particularly important as Toyota continues to roll out new and evolving models across the country. Key vehicles such as the RAV4, including its upcoming plug-in hybrid variant, and the long-standing Hilux remain central to New Zealand’s automotive landscape. Tatsuya says the Hilux has become an icon in regional and rural communities with a 50-year legacy of durability and performance. “The Hilux has a special place in New Zealand. It has supported generations of farmers, contractors and regional businesses and its reputation for reliability is deeply trusted,” he says. Alongside these established models Toyota is also expanding its electrified range, including the Toyota bZ4X and bZ4X Touring. These vehicles form part of a broader multi-pathway approach that includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric technologies. T TKaren Phelps Supporting customers and regional economies Toyota New Zealand operates a network of more than 60 stores that function not only as retail outlets but as community hubs. “We are not moving in one single direction. We understand there is not a ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to how New Zealanders use their vehicles,” Tatsuya says. “That’s why we are offering multiple powertrain options to support different customer needs, whether that be petrol, diesel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid or full battery electric, this is to help make sure the transition to lower emissions is practical and accessible for everybody.” This approach is supported by strong back-end support systems that ensure customers have confidence in both traditional and emerging technologies. Toyota NZ REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Whether servicing hybrid systems or preparing for full battery electric adoption, Toyota’s national infrastructure is designed to maintain continuity and trust. “Customers need confidence that whichever technology they choose, they will be “Our store network works hard at a community and national level to build relationships....” T T Sustainable drive - page 8 supported,” says Tatsuya “That is what our network is designed to deliver.” Commercial Gardening Specialists All garden maintenance from weeding to hedge trimming and even mowing. Making business sites and your residential homes tidy, professional, and inviting, we provide professional care with excellent results. Sarah & Madison Buchanan | Directors 027 430 8081 contact@jungletamers.co.nz www.jungletamers.co.nz

Toyota NZ REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Toyota’s National Customer Centre (NCC) in Palmerston North. Meeting the needs of locations nationwide. Our proven methodology and end-to-end process deliver tailored workspace solutions that enhance productivity, support your team, and bring your vision to life — from concept through to completion. www.shape.net.nz • Akl - 09 215 4833 | Wgtn - 04 979 9308 • sales@shape.net.nz SMARTER WORKSPACES START WITH SHAPE. Proud to partner with

8 | As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Toyota New Zealand is positioning itself as a long-term partner in shaping sustainable mobility across New Zealand. Central to this vision is a commitment to environmental responsibility, people development, and inclusive growth, supported by its operational base in Palmerston North. “Sustainability is not a single initiative for us, it is woven into everything we do,” says Toyota New Zealand CEO Tatsuya Ishikawa. “It includes environmental responsibility but also economic and social wellbeing.” The company is investing in more efficient infrastructure including renewable energy solutions at key sites while continuing to work towards lowering emissions by 2050. Its approach recognises that different customers will transition at different speeds and that flexibility is important in a country with diverse geography and transport needs. “Our role is to provide realistic pathways for New Zealanders. That means hybrid, plug-in hybrid, battery electric and future hydrogen technologies all working together to reduce emissions over time.” This multi-pathway strategy ensures that innovation does not come at the expense of accessibility. It allows customers in both urban and rural areas to participate in the transition to lower-emission mobility without sacrificing practicality or reliability. Values shaping Toyota NZ Toyota New Zealand is positioning itself as a long-term partner in shaping sustainable mobility across New Zealand. T TKaren Phelps Toyota New Zealand also places strong emphasis on people and culture. With more than 2,350 team members across over 60 locations, the company fosters an inclusive environment where development and long-term careers are prioritised. “We believe in developing our people and giving them opportunities to grow. When our team grows, our ability to serve customers and communities grows with it,” says Tatsuya. The company’s philosophy is also influenced by long-standing guiding principles that include continuous improvement, respect for people and teamwork. These values shape how it operates both internally and within the wider community. “We are always looking for a better way to serve customers and contribute to society.” Community engagement also remains a core part of Toyota’s identity in New Zealand. Through its nationwide network it supports local initiatives, sponsorships and events, reinforcing its role as a long-term partner in the regions it serves. Ultimately, Tatsuya says the company’s focus remains on delivering successful outcomes for customers. Toyota NZ REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT “Sustainability is not a single initiative for us, it is woven into everything we do. It includes environmental responsibility but also economic and social wellbeing.” Whether through improved service infrastructure, expanded electrified vehicle options or stronger regional investment, Toyota New Zealand continues to align national capability with local needs. “At the centre of everything we do is the customer. Our purpose is to improve quality of life through mobility and every investment we make is designed to support that goal across New Zealand.” www.capturesigns.co.nz GRAPHICS HQ IS PROUD TO PARTNER WITH TOYOTA NEW ZEALAND, SUPPLYING A RANGE OF SIGNAGE ANDWRAPPING SOLUTIONS NATIONWIDE. From dealership signage to complete eet wraps, we deliver high-impact branding that’s built to perform and made to last. When you need expert solutions for Plumbing, Heating or Cooling contact Heatrite Heatrite are proud to work alongside Toyota NZ E heatrite@heatrite.co.nz P 0800 109933 83-85 Bourke Street Palmerston North www.heatrite.co.nz

| 9 “From the outset, our vision has been to provide an exceptional property management service in Taranaki because we could see a clear need for that.” You can count on us to get sh*t done. Residential • Commercial Maintenance & Servicing 027 555 1487 | admin@kowhaiplumbing.co.nz | kowhaiplumbing.co.nz Occupy Property Management T T Kim Newth Communication at the heart.... Allison and Zac Bunyan offer a personalised and responsive service. REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Taranaki’s Occupy Property Management is an independent, family-owned business dedicated to protecting property investments and delivering peace of mind for landlords and tenants. Co-owners Allison and Zac Bunyan offer a personalised and responsive service that covers every aspect of the rental process to provide a stress-free experience for all involved. Since the business started in New Plymouth in late 2019, Occupy Property Management has grown strong client relationships throughout Taranaki’s rental market. Their tailored, full-service approach is supporting a range of investors, from firsttime landlords through to seasoned investors with multiple properties. “From the outset, our vision has been to provide an exceptional property management service in Taranaki because we could see a clear need for that. Rather than buying into an existing franchise, we decided to build our own brand backed by our reputation.” Allison rates quality communication as their number one priority and strength. As she observes, this is particularly important with regular owner updates, clear reporting on rent, maintenance, and tenancy status. Empathy and tact are crucial; their goal is to keep all parties supported and informed. Allison’s background in people management and customer service, coupled with Zac’s construction and project management experience, has been a strong foundation for this business. “Staying up to date with residential tenancy legislation is a key priority for myself and the team and we work hard to ensure all properties and tenancies are fully compliant with the law. “Zac is our business development manager — he does free rental appraisals for prospective clients, checks that properties are ready to rent and makes sure we get the best tenants for them,” says Allison. Occupy Property Management can also organise Healthy Home Assessments and arrange for work to be done, if needed. Their team works efficiently to ensure properties are tenanted as quickly as possible. Clients are assured of prompt and attentive service, with tenants also well looked after. Zac is also very proactive about investigating maintenance issues as they arise and arranging appropriate and timely solutions. Property management law is fast evolving. Allison notes there have been two significant changes in the past six months: new pet consent and pet bond rules, and new methamphetamine standards for rental housing. “Clear thresholds on meth contamination have now been set, which we welcome as it was previously a grey area. “With the changes to pet rules, landlords are now obliged to consider and approve tenants’ requests unless there are specific reasons for that property not being suitable for a pet. “There is a two-week pet bond, giving landlords a bit more protection around allowing pets. Interestingly, though, we have not yet seen much of a response from tenants to these new pet rules.” Occupy Property Management values strong relationships with their clients and the Taranaki community, helping ensure they continue to deliver the highest standard of service in the property management sector. “We’ve had a couple of tenants go on to buy their own homes and then come back to us to rent out their properties. For us, that’s a huge compliment and something I’m very proud of.”

10 | T T Karen Phelps New centre a huge step for region Approximately 80 per cent of radiation treatments can be delivered locally, significantly reducing the travel burden for patients and whānau. “This centre is more than bricks and mortar, it’s a symbol of hope, of progress and of our collective commitment to the people of Taranaki.” Taranaki Cancer Centre| Te Hōpua Whakahauora REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Flooring to suit your style CARPET · VINYL · TIMBER · LAMINATE · RUGS E: newplymouth@flooringxtra.co.nz P: (06) 753 3933 flooringxtra.newplymouth ClassicCarpetsFlooringXtra Classic Carpets Flooring Xtra Borrell Avenue, New Plymouth Book your free measure and quote The opening of the new Taranaki Cancer Centre | Te Hōpua Whakahauora late last year marked a significant step forward in cancer care for the region, bringing advanced treatment and improved access closer to home. Wendy Langlands, Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora Group Director of Operations in Taranaki, says the facility represents hope and progress. “Cancer is something that touches us all — whether it’s a loved one, a friend, a colleague or our own personal journey, few of us are untouched by its impact,” says Wendy. “That’s why the centre’s opening on November 7, then being able to accept our first chemotherapy patients in late November and our first radiation treatments in early December, was so meaningful. “This centre is more than bricks and mortar, it’s a symbol of hope, of progress and of our collective commitment to the people of Taranaki.” It is estimated that around 300 people in Taranaki require radiation therapy each year, and previously many were required to travel to Palmerston North for treatment. Now approximately 80 per cent of radiation treatments can be delivered locally, significantly reducing the travel burden for patients and whānau. The new centre features 10 chemotherapy chairs, two single isolation rooms and eight outpatient consult rooms with video conferencing capability to enable faster, more connected care. The centre has already improved access to care across the region, helping integrate oncology services under one roof and strengthening collaboration between clinicians. Community support through the Taranaki Health Foundation raised more than $2 million for enhancements outside the core government budget. Major donations include $1.5 million from Toi Foundation, $250,000 from Energy Works and $100,000 from iTaranaki. Local fundraising efforts have also played a role including initiatives such as Primo Fund-Razor, which raised $23,000. One notable contribution came from 11-year-old Ruby Whitham of Waitara, who raised $5,000 after shaving her head to support children undergoing cancer treatment. Her efforts were inspired after seeing a fundraising event earlier in the year and she exceeded her original $1,000 goal. I wanted to help children my age who have lost their hair because of cancer,” she says. The centre’s gifted name, Te Hōpua Whakahauora, reflects the cultural narrative Te Puna Wai Taheke Iho I Te Ora, where water symbolises life and wellbeing. Tamati Neho, Interim Chief Māori Health and Equity Officer, says the name carries deep significance, with hōpua meaning a natural pool and whakahauora meaning to revive and refresh. Cultural design elements including the mangopare design on the building exterior, further connect the facility to themes of resilience, strength and healing. In line with sustainability goals, the centre has achieved a 5 Star Green Star design rating, incorporating energy efficiency, water savings, improved indoor environments and sustainable materials. “In opening the Centre, we celebrate more than a new facility,” says Wendy. “We celebrate what it represents: a future where cancer care in Taranaki is more accessible, more advanced, and more compassionate. “A future where patients and their whānau feel supported every step of the way. And a future where our region continues to lead with heart and innovation.”

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