AUT’s Ngā Wai o Horotiu marae serves as a whānau, cultural and spiritual hub, and gateway to both AUT and Auckland city. It emphasizes AUT’s role as a place of learning, where tangata whenua have a distinct and vital presence.
Its name and design, gifted by local mana whenua Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, incorporates bold, contemporary artwork that embodies the diversity of the AUT community, celebrating a wide range of cultures. Ngā Wai o Horotiu is a place for learning, student exchanges, wānanga and ceremonies, and stands as a proud symbol of AUT’s commitment to inclusivity and cultural respect.
The marae’s meeting house and dining room each have meaningful names.
Our marae’s meeting house was named Te Pūrengi by the local iwi Ngāti Whātua. The name represents the ropes which hold the mast of a waka in place. Te Pūrengi is the focal point of Ngā Wai o Horotiu.
Our dining room is called te Kaipara after the Kaipara Harbour. Ngāti Whātua traversed the Kaipara from the North. The word ‘para’ is a reference to the para fern which is a traditional Māori delicacy. Kai-para means ‘to eat the para fern’. It’s a fitting name for our dining room. Kaipara – the house of gourmet food.
AUT staff can book the marae through TUIA (the staff intranet).
Due to the high demand from our AUT community we’re unable to accommodate external bookings. Visit the Marae collective site for other marae across Tāmaki Makaurau that may be available for hire. Alternatively, you can email marae.booking@aut.ac.nz
AUT plays a critical role in shaping Aotearoa New Zealand, and has undergone a transformational journey towards aligning with Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Learn more about our Māori whānau, and discover the positive impact our work is making across Aotearoa.