Haumako a fitting name for foodeast
The reo name for Hawke’s Bay’s food innovation hub foodeast has been revealed today [Sept 16] and the ground blessed ahead of a start on construction.
The name haumako was bestowed upon the facility by Ngāti Kahungunu chairman Ngahiwi Tomoana. “Haumako translates to richness and fertility, and so metaphorically links to the productive lands of the Heretaunga Plains, from which the bounty of produce and product comes,” said Mr Tomoana.
Foodeast chairman Craig Foss said the name aligned perfectly with the kaupapa of the project: developing innovative products from Hawke’s Bay’s primary produce. “We are honoured to receive the name and to have Ngāti Kahungunu bless the site before we commence building. We are very pleased to have reached this stage in this exciting project.”
A ground breaking event planned for the day had been significantly scaled back, reflecting the need for social distancing at Covid alert level 2. A representative of each of the shareholders - Hawke’s Bay Regional Investment Company (HBRIC), Hastings District Council and Progressive Meats - joined Mr Foss and Mr Tomoana for the site blessing and ceremonial ground breaking.
HBRIC chairman Dan Druzianic said the contributions of Kānoa - Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit, HBRIC, Progressive Meats Limited and Hastings District Council, which led the project until its handover to the foodeast board, had provided a strong platform on which to build.
“We look forward now to being able to bring everyone together at the end of the 14-month build to celebrate the opening of the facility. In the meantime the team will be developing the unique offering the facility will provide to prospective tenants to ensure we achieve the best possible outcomes out of the initiative.”
Economic and Regional Development Minister Stuart Nash says it is a government priority to support the regions to keep up the momentum of economic recovery.
“Prior to this most recent outbreak of COVID-19, regional New Zealand bounced back with incredible resilience. We know it is important that our response to the impact of COVID-19 is not only about keeping people safe but also protecting our way of life. As always, the best economic response is a strong health response.
“Foodeast-haumako will deliver great value to the region by providing jobs and helping local businesses thrive. It will be a place of innovation, designed to add value to the region’s food, beverage and agri-tech industry.”
Stuart Nash – Economic and Regional Development Minister
“I am thrilled to celebrate the success of the primary industries in Hawke’s Bay and look forward to seeing the development of these innovative new products that will be taken to markets both in New Zealand and overseas.
“It has been so pleasing to see such a diverse group come together to deliver this exciting project. Iwi, local business, local government and central government have worked together for the good of the region,” Stuart Nash said.
Hastings mayor Sandra Hazlehurst said the start of construction was an important milestone. “It is the culmination of two years of work for what will be a game changer for our food and beverage industry. We are very proud of what we have achieved to date, and can’t wait to see where the foodeast board takes it from here.”
Progressive Meats founder Craig Hickson said the facility would provide focus, facilities, synergies and assistance to people with entrepreneurial ideas and aspirations in food and beverage related industries. “I’m really pleased that Progressive Meats is closely involved in this project; I do believe that innovative products and services will come out of it.”
Construction is due to start in October, with the facility expected to be completed in late 2022.
Background:
The name haumako reflects the fertility and richness of the region and is referenced in the Heretaunga whakataukī:
Heretaunga haukūnui
Heretaunga ararau
Heretaunga hāro o te kāhu
Heretaunga ringahora
Heretaunga raorao haumako
Heretaunga takoto noa
Heretaunga of the Life-giving Dews and Waters
Heretaunga of Converging PathwaysHeretaunga whose beauty is seen
from the Eye of the Hawk
Heretaunga with its ‘Open Arms’ of Hospitality
Heretaunga of its Fertile Plains
Heretaunga of the Departed Chiefs