Te Pūtahi Ora
A New Chapter for Community Health in Horowhenua
A ceremony alongside iwi partners Muaūpoko, was held on Wednesday 22nd October to celebrate the blessing of the building and official unveiling of the name Te Pūtahi Ora, the district’s new Health & Wellbeing Hub, located on Durham Street, Levin. A milestone project that marks a major step forward in improving access to health services and supporting wellbeing across the district.
The Health & Wellbeing Hub was developed by Horowhenua Developments Ltd (HDL) in partnership with the Horowhenua New Zealand Trust (HNZT) with a shared goal of creating a central, accessible facility that brings together four health services under one roof.
Te Pūtahi Ora, a name gifted by Muaūpoko, means a place for heart, health and wellbeing. The name reflects both the purpose of the facility and the extension of a meeting place and the spirit of partnership between iwi, and community which is also reflected in the logo.
Muaūpoko representatives spoke about the vision that has come together to reflect the connection to the land. Di Rump (CE) spoke about the partnership on collaboration and developing a building as part of the whenua. Sian Montgomery-Neutze spoke about her intentions as a designer from the interconnected placement, unique landscaping and foyer design. The foyer is has been created to be the heart as a centre point. The Pou situated outside the entrance way is designed so people feel guided when entering and exiting out the building.
Horowhenua Developments Ltd Chair, Brendan Duffy said the project reflects what’s possible through local leadership and partnership. “Te Pūtahi Ora is a perfect example of community vision in action. This has been a team effort, from the builders and project team to mana whenua and funders, all united by a shared goal to strengthen the health and resilience of our district. It’s a milestone we can all celebrate”.
“Seeing Te Pūtahi Ora come to life has been incredibly rewarding,” said Project Manager Melissa Hanson. “This project has always been about more than construction, it’s about creating a space that truly serves our community. From the first sketches to the final finishes, every detail was designed with care, collaboration, and wellbeing in mind. To see it standing here today, is something we can all be proud of. The build was completed by Homestead Construction, whose collaborative approach, workmanship and attention to detail have exceeded expectations”.
Te Pūtahi Ora tenants include Taitoko Health a general practice, Canopy Radiology, as well as pharmacy and physiotherapy. There are two tenants currently completing the their interior fitouts Pharmacy and physiotherapy and once finished will be fully operational by the end of the year. While the Taitoko Health and Radiology will be opening on the 30th of October.
Antony Young thanked the partners, funders and donors who have supported this project. Including a grant from Eastern and Central Community Trust for landscaping. This was used to create an outdoor area that creates a welcoming space with trees and seating.
