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Harakeke ceremony marks new start for Family Works Hawke’s Bay

On Friday 12 November Family Works Hawke’s Bay celebrated their official opening of their offices at 104 Lyndon Road West, Hastings and across the road at St Andrew’s Hall.

Nearly a year and half after having to urgently vacate nearby Heretaunga House due to earthquake risk, the social service provider was able to hold a long-awaited celebration of new premises. Here Family Works social workers, counsellors, educators and facilitators have a new base from which to run group sessions, welcome clients and plan for their work in the local community.

A mihi whakatau was held for invited guests including Tukituki MP Anna Lorck, representatives from government agencies and Hawke’s Bay DHB, Family Works Guardian Angels and local schools, led by Francis Te Pou for the PSEC hosts and Bayden Barber for the welcomed guests.

A harakeke was planted to mark the occasion, and Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst cut the green ribbon at the door.

The harakeke (flax) is an important symbol for Family Works. It symbolises the wellbeing of family and whānau – the centre of the harakeke representing new shoots (children) and outer leaves representing protectors (guardians/parents).

The harakeke was planted by Sanja Majstorović, PSEC CEO, Kerry Marshall, PSEC Patron and Kaye Paringatai, Family Works Educator.

 Family Works Hawkes Bay opening celebration

Left to right top to bottom.
Hastings Mayor Sandra Hazlehurst cuts the green ribbon at the door. A mihi whakatau by the Family Works team.
Bayden Barber, Tukituki MP Anna Lorc, and Family Works Service Manager Pam McCann celebrate the Family Works Hawke’s Bay opening. Sanja Majstorović, PSEC CEO, Kerry Marshall, PSEC Patron and Kaye Paringatai, Family Works Educator plant the harakeke