Ōnuku Marae is urgently seeking funding to complete critical flood remediation work, warning its ability to operate as an emergency hub is increasingly at risk.

The latest bout of severe weather, which recently forced a group of 60 students, parents and teachers to remain at the marae an extra night due to flooded roads, has again exposed the site’s vulnerability.

Read more: 60 students from Christchurch school stranded at marae near Akaroa

Speaking with Chris Lynch Media, General Manager of Ōnuku Rūnanga Jo McLean said heavy rain and fast-moving water have become an ongoing concern.

“It’s becoming a real issue for us at Ōnuku,” McLean said. “Our marae is supposed to be able to open its doors in an emergency for hot showers, kai, and a safe place if our community needs to evacuate. We need this work completed so the marae can remain a safe refuge.”

The recent rain event marks the third time this year the marae has had to sandbag buildings to prevent floodwaters entering.

During last year’s flooding, a roadside culvert failed, sending water surging down the main driveway and directly into the wharekai.

Two key areas have been identified for remediation, with the most urgent involving relocating the driveway and upgrading surrounding land and infrastructure to protect buildings.

Ōnuku has secured around half of the $600,000 required for the project. Funding applications for the remainder have been lodged for several months, but McLean says time is running out as winter approaches.

“While we appreciate there are many competing priorities and significant pressures on available funding, our priority is of course the marae and the safety of those who rely on it,” she said.

“Ōnuku is well set up to operate as an emergency hub. We have worked hard to ensure we are in a position to awhi and support whānau and the wider community during adverse events in what is a relatively isolated rural area. However, with severe weather events becoming more frequent, every day that passes increases the risk.”

She said there is only a limited window to complete the remediation work before the likelihood of further severe weather increases.

“There is a limited window of time to complete this work to ensure not only the protection of our buildings and our beautiful wharenui, but also our ability to continue supporting the community during emergencies.”

Beyond the physical damage, repeated flooding is placing strain on the marae community.

“Repeated flooding and risk of flooding creates ongoing stress for our whānau. Each time there is a weather warning, we are required to sandbag around the marae, something we have had to do several times already this year.”

McLean also raised concerns about the long-term implications if flooding continues.

“If we are at risk ourselves, it puts our ability to function as an emergency hub for the community at risk. We are also concerned about the potential implications for ongoing insurance cover.”

Despite the challenges, she says there is a clear path forward.

“The frustration is that there is a solution available. We remain hopeful that the necessary funding will be provided to mitigate the ongoing risk and secure the future of Ōnuku Marae as a place of safety, resilience and support for our community.”