Skip Content
Sandy Adsett

Nearly forty years ago Sandy Adsett and a host of other volunteers banded together to work on the interior of the whārenui of Te Rauhina Marae in Wairoa.

This year, he was back, not to inspect his handiwork from years gone by, but to once again put himself to work as the marae underwent a makeover courtesy of popular television show Marae DIY.

Te Wānanga o Aotearoa is into its third year as broadcast sponsor of the show and at each of the marae which receive upgrades, toi whānau and others from Te Wānanga o Aotearoa pitch in to get the job done and help create unique art projects for each marae.

Sandy says returning to Te Rauhina allowed him to catch up with some of the same volunteers he worked with decades ago.

“Many are now in their 50s and 60s,” he says.

“And there was real value in being able to reconnect.”

He says they worked with the marae before the makeover got underway to ensure what was planned fitted with the kaupapa of the marae.

“We paid a visit beforehand, got the measurements we needed and worked through concepts. We had to ensure with the marae itself that we respected their kaupapa.”

He says other issues, such as ensuring the work is completed during the four-day project and making sure the marae is not left to cover any unforeseen costs, are equally important.

“We can’t leave it unfinished and our koha must cover what we are offering,” he says.

He says that was achieved at Te Rauhina and the outcome – which will be revealed on Three later this year – was a good one.

“It was a real positive outcome and a learning one for the whānau.”

 Back to news & events

Published On:

Article By:



Other Articles

  • 22 October 2025

    From the bush to a PhD - Fabian's journey of faith, family, and learning

    Fabian C Mika’s journey from the ngahere of Rūātoki to earning a PhD is a powerful story of faith, whānau, and mātauranga Māori. Discover how his passion for Ringatū, te reo Māori, and education led to academic success and a legacy of learning for future generations.

  • 20 October 2025

    Mahi toi exhibitions 2025

    From raranga to whakairo, Te Wānanga o Aotearoa toi tauira are showcasing their mahi toi in free exhibitions across Aotearoa from September to November 2025. Discover stunning works of Māori art and creativity, and celebrate the journey of tauira from certificate to degree level.

  • 15 October 2025

    Building a beauty brand through education and drive

    At just 21, Maata Morrell-Dzilic is building a thriving beauty brand with the support of business education from Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. Discover how her passion, determination, and study in small business and project management are fuelling her entrepreneurial success.

  • 08 October 2025

    From paddling to politics: a journey for reo, rights and representation

    Bevan O’Connor’s journey from waka ama to the political stage is powered by his passion for te reo Māori and Māori rights. Discover how his studies at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa and deep connection to te ao Māori are shaping his campaign for the Takitimu Māori Ward.