Toitū Ngā Marae: Pandemic Experiences of Marae in Tāmaki Makaurau

How can communities thrive in times of change, social isolation and worry? This new adult nonfiction book tells the inspiring stories of how marae across Auckland responded to the needs of their communities during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Edited by Dr Kimiora Raerino and co-published by Auckland Council Libraries and Huia, the book is scheduled for release in late November. 

Image: The book’s editor, Dr Kimiora Raerino, holds a copy of Toitū Ngā Marae: Pandemic Experiences of Marae in Tāmaki Makaurau.

Through 22 interviews with marae leaders and workers, Toitū Ngā Marae: Pandemic Experiences of Marae in Tāmaki Makaurau documents the vital role ten local marae played in supporting whānau and the wider community. They were able to provide healthy food to the community, care for isolated whānau and organise vaccination centres – all while confronting lockdowns, restrictions, illness and the loss happening throughout Aotearoa.

Some interviews took place in te reo Māori and others in English. This publication will engage readers from diverse backgrounds, offering a bilingual experience that celebrates both languages. Find stories of hope and resilience, dedication and ingenuity as marae rose to meet extraordinary circumstances.

The pages come alive with beautifully detailed photography, providing an intimate glimpse into the people, places and moments that shaped the marae of Tāmaki Makaurau during this critical time.

By exploring this book, you’re not just reading about history; you’re connecting with the heart of our communities. Discover what’s possible when people come together in communities and how marae continue to shape the fabric of Aotearoa while facing modern challenges head-on.

Book launch date

The book will officially be launched on 28 November at Manurewa Marae and will come to library shelves by early December. Be one of the first to borrow it by placing your request now!

Request the library book 

You can also buy your own copy online or in your favourite bookshop!

Auckland Council Libraries’ role in bringing Toitū Ngā Marae to life

• As a co-publisher of Toitū Ngā Marae, our publishing team worked with editor Dr Kimiora Raerino and Huia to create this important pukapuka.

• We also provided the funding through the New Zealand Libraries Partnership Programme, an initiative that was led by the National Library to support COVID-19 recovery work across New Zealand’s library system.

• Our publishing programme publishes books with and for Auckland’s diverse communities, focusing on stories and voices that might otherwise not get heard.

Other projects supported by the Auckland Libraries Publishing Programme

The Publishing Programme and Content Creation Fund supports the development of unique and engaging books, videos and other content that reflect the experiences of Auckland’s diverse communities. Here are some other exciting projects you might want to check out:

 

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