We were delighted to have celebrated the re-opening of Tūi House with our community on Tuesday, marking an important milestone for people living with dementia and their whānau across Heretaunga | Hawke’s Bay.

Kaumātua Papa Jerry Hapuku opened the day with a karakia and blessing of Tūī, grounding the space in tikanga and setting the intention for care, dignity, and aroha for all who walk through our doors. Heretaunga Hastings Mayor Wendy Schollum also attended, acknowledging the importance of services that support people living with dementia and their whānau across Heretaunga.

The event brought together staff, clients, care partners, stakeholders and community supporters who helped make Tūī House possible. Special thanks to our generous community, including:

• Simply Architecture – who designed the renovations
• Direct Earth – who project-managed and carried out the building works
• Asbestos HB – who helped ensure the building is safe for everyone
• Trust House – who contributed half the cost of installing our solar system.
• Cell Power – who upgraded us to a higher-wattage solar system at no charge – and donated two additional solar panels
• Bay Roofing – our reroofing contractor – a fabulous job and a discounted rate.

During CEO Tracey Lanigan’s speech, a tūī began singing in a nearby tree – a fitting moment to mark the opening of Tūī House.

Thank you to everyone who supported this project and celebrated with us. Tūī House has been created with heart, and we are so proud to share it with our community.