ANT Trust granted lease over Tangonge Domain

A recent council decision to grant Aupōuri Ngāti Kahu Te Rarawa Trust (ANT Trust) a 30-year ground lease over Tangonge Domain Recreation Reserve was assisted by an outpouring of community support for the move.

The decision followed a month-long public consultation held late last year on a proposal to extend the trust’s existing lease on the reserve. Under the Reserves Act, the council must notify the public of any proposal to lease a Recreation Reserve and seek feedback before making a decision. Of the 91 submissions received, 86 supported the proposal to grant the lease to the trust.

Tangonge Domain had for a long time been an unused empty field in Kaitāia West. It had become a dumping ground for landfill and domestic rubbish and had become a haunt for drinking and drug use. Five years ago, ANT Trust began transforming Tangonge Domain into a safe and pleasant space for whānau to gather, play, and socialise. From its own fundraising, it undertook significant work including removal of all rubbish, drainage and foundation work, grading and contouring fields, fencing, and the marking of sports fields and exercise areas. Looking ahead, ANT Trust’s plans include:

• Te Reo o Te Kāinga: Establishing a trust that includes local whānau to drive Tangonge Domain initiatives.
• Creating a sustainable play area with trees and logs for various activities, designed with safety in mind with a minimum of plastic and steel elements.
• Erecting Pouwhenua representing each of the iwi in Muriwhenua, providing educational opportunities and cultural significance.
• Constructing a 1km-long accessible boardwalk, providing a scenic route for walking and gathering.
• Installing exercise stations along the walking track for whānau and athletes to use for fitness and training.
• Designating an area for fruit trees that the community can access.
• Planting native plants and trees with educational information on rongoa Māori (traditional Māori medicine).
• Installing a billboard and digital display showcasing the park's history, areas, and intended uses.
• Establishing a junior sporting academy programme to promote movement, coordination, and youth development through sport.

These future projects align with the ANT Trust’s commitment to community empowerment and fostering a sense of belonging and well-being among residents.