The ongoing need to fund Hauraki's 1,000-square-metre Social Supermarket, Pātaka Kai, has sparked a community movement, culminating in a fashion activism and fundraiser, “Ngā Mana o Motuhake”.
Te Whāriki Manawāhine o Hauraki and Waste Management New Zealand have teamed up to organise this ambitious charity event, supported by foundational partner HereforNZ. The shared goal has been to support all diverse communities in Hauraki and ensure food reaches those who need it most.
“We see the struggles; we want to be part of the solution. This might be a model for the future by pairing up with the right people and letting them get on and do the good work,” said Matt Heap, its Chair.
With a fundraising target of at least $50,000, the event aims to cover Pātaka Kai’s monthly operating costs of $12,000. Pātaka Kai operates on a points-based system, offering $35 worth of groceries for single families and $60 for larger families. It also has built-in trolley calculators for convenience.
Despite its success and MSD's frequent referrals, the Hauraki Pātaka Kai Social Supermarket does not receive government funding. Instead, it relies on philanthropic funders, community donations, sponsorships, organic farmers, Tangata Tiriti partners, and fundraising events, such as an upcoming 'white tie' dinner for White Ribbon Day in November.
“Some of the kai we buy, so the funding raised at this event will support that. When I’m asked, why are you involved in feeding people? I tell them it fits with Te Aorerekura, the government’s 25-year strategy to eliminate family and sexual violence,” said Denise Messiter, Chief Executive of Te Whāriki Manawāhine o Hauraki.
“Our Pātaka Kai is about alleviating the burdens of food insecurity, preventing whānau from taking those stressors out on themselves. Our initiative also champions food rescue. In the past three months, we’ve saved one tonne of kai from ending up in landfills and poisoning Papatūānuku. Instead, that food has gone where it’s needed most— towards feeding whānau.”
Messiter appealed to those who were in this position to consider sponsoring the Pātaka Kai by contacting her directly at the office of Te Whāriki Manawāhine o Hauraki in Thames.
International Māori fashion designer and New Zealand Fashion Museum inductee Jeanine Clarkin headlined the diversity-inspired evening. As a proponent of using recycled fabrics and sustainable methods, she was excited to collaborate with the show's models and performers.
A highlight of the evening will be the fashion parade, which will showcase 30 handmade garments by a trio of independent Hauraki designers: Sandra Taipari, Hohepa Barlow, and Colleen Renata. Some garments will be sold with a percentage going towards the Pātaka Kai.
Country music award winner Keinan Ngapo, who has strong tribal roots in Hauraki, is the opening act, singing various country, pop, rhythm, and blues songs.
Glam drag sisters, The Tīwhas cannot wait to “celebrate being queer and Māori and how that shapes who we are” with their stunning cabaret theatre that’s taken the Big Gay Out, Fringe Festival, BATs Theatre and CupaDupa by storm.
The dynamic artists will take the stage at the Thames Civic for the first time in Hauraki, delivering a powerful and unforgettable performance.
The fundraiser is part of a series of events by Ngā Pūtake o Toi ki Hauraki to create meaningful change in the community. This event promises an inspiring celebration and collaboration while raising crucial funds to support Pātaka Kai’s mission to feed Hauraki.
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