Parihaka

New Zealand’s historic Parihaka papakāinga is undergoing a transformative infrastructure renewal—an initiative to deliver essential three-waters networks, power, fibre, and roading upgrades as a foundation for future development and economic growth. Located on 22 hectares of Māori Reservation land, the project responds to long-standing infrastructure challenges, including unregistered water supply, ageing wastewater systems, and a lack of stormwater management.

RCP has been engaged to provide comprehensive project management services across design, consenting, procurement, and construction phases.

For decades, infrastructure deficits have limited growth and cultural activity at Parihaka, which is currently home to three marae and approximately 30 whare. As Māori Reservation land, the site is non-rated, which precludes standard council investment and has necessitated direct funding from the Crown and philanthropic sources.

Recognising the unique archaeological, environmental, cultural and social context, RCP developed a bespoke procurement strategy that sought a construction delivery partner rather than a conventional contractor. The strategy prioritised suppliers not only for their technical capability but for their ability to work in alignment with Ngā Tikanga o Parihaka—the principles and values that have guided the community since its founding. A key aspect of this approach was to drive broader outcomes within the construction industry, including the prioritisation of local and Māori businesses. As a result, over 70% of the work has been awarded to Māori-owned enterprises—strengthening cultural stewardship, building skills, and fostering community ownership.

Cultural and archaeological protocols are central to project delivery. Cultural monitoring of earthworks is undertaken by trained Parihaka uri and whānau, supported by professional archaeologists. A two-stage archaeological excavation process ensures that any in-ground features are properly recorded and taonga are catalogued under the Archaeological Authority granted by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga in July 2024.

Upon completion, the renewed papakāinga will feature modern three-waters infrastructure, a decentralised wastewater system that enables future development, upgraded roads, and fully reticulated services. These improvements are designed to support the growth of the community and the three marae.

Beyond physical infrastructure, the Parihaka Infrastructure Project is about enduring cultural resilience. It protects whenua, awa and taonga, builds local capability, and fosters economic opportunity through community-led development. It represents a commitment to cultural restoration, community strength, and future-focused development. Delivered within a living, culturally significant papakāinga, it reflects a careful balance of modern infrastructure needs with deep respect for tikanga and heritage.