Manukau's new arts centre has been named

The name for Manukau’s first purpose-built arts facility, to be opened in September, has been approved by Manukau City Council.

The name, Mangere Arts Centre – Ngā Tohu o Uenuku, was agreed upon by the Mangere Community Board following extensive consultation with the local community, including representatives of the Mana Whenua Forum, Pūkaki, Makaurau and Te Puea marae.

Te Waiohua / Tainui kaumātua of the marae say that the name is layered with meaning relevant to the Mangere area, the aspirations of the new arts centre, and the design of the building.

Uenuku is an old name for the area encompassing Mangere down to Pukekohe. It is also the name of a god of creativity, also known as Uenuku Kaitangata. This deity can be seen in the form of the rainbow, an association that is reflected in the centre’s vibrant external design features. For the centre, the ’tohu’ of Uenuku represents learnings and teachings from which knowledge is attained.

Peter Skelton, Chair of the Mangere Community Board, said that it was very important for the centre’s name to be bilingual. “Mangere has a rainbow of cultures. It is a very culturally diverse area and this must be reflected in the centre and its name.”

The facility - featuring a 250-seat flexiform theatre, two art galleries, a community kitchen, future café and a large outdoor courtyard - will serve the Manukau and wider Auckland community as a centre for visual and performing arts, with a particular focus on Maori and Pacific art forms.

The official opening for Mangere Arts Centre – Ngā Tohu o Uenuku will be hosted by Mayor Len Brown on 3 September. The opening weekend on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 September will be a major celebration for the community - giving the public a taste of the programmes and exhibitions the centre will offer.

What: Mangere Arts Centre – Ngā Tohu o Uenuku
Where: Corner Bader Drive and Orly Avenue, Mangere, Manukau
When: Official opening - 3 September, 2010 (invitation only)
Public opening weekend - 4 and 5 September, 2010