The Māngere community came together in November to celebrate the opening of Reporepo Park - a new green space for the Aorere neighbourhood. Mana whenua played a central role in guiding the development of the park, with a special acknowledgement to Te Ākitai Waiohua, who led on behalf of mana whenua. Consultation with local schools, Kingsford Primary and Kedgley Intermediate, also helped shape aspects of the design, ensuring the park reflects the people who will use it every day.
A meaningful start: park blessing
On 13 November, mana whenua, Local Board members, Kāinga Ora representatives, and community groups gathered for a special karakia/blessing to acknowledge the opening of Reporepo Park. The early-morning ceremony recognised the cultural significance of the space and the shared effort that brought it to life.
The design of Reporepo Park draws from the rich cultural narrative of the area. The three raised lawn features represent Pūkaki Crater and Crater Hill in Māngere, along with Kohuora Park in Papatoetoe. Together, these maunga are known as Ngā Tapuwae ā Matāoho — the sacred footprints of Mataoho. The main path references the Pūkaki Waka Portage, an important route for Te Ākitai Waiohua, while the surrounding volcanic landscape connects to Matāoho, the deity associated with the creation of Ngāi Maunga in Tāmaki. These stories remain deeply significant to mana whenua, and Reporepo Park reflects and honours this connection to place.
The blessing marked an important milestone — welcoming the park into the neighbourhood and honouring both the whenua and the people who will enjoy it for generations to come.
A community celebration filled with fun
A week later, on 22 November, the wider community gathered to enjoy a relaxed and family-friendly celebration marking the park’s official opening. With plenty of activity and excitement across the new green space, Reporepo Park quickly became the heart of the neighbourhood for the morning.
Families enjoyed a sausage sizzle, coffee cart, ice cream truck, face painting, a scavenger hunt, and a kids’ art activity. More than 130 people attended, including whānau, community groups, and Local Board representatives who joined in celebrating the delivery of this long-awaited space.
The response from residents was overwhelmingly positive, with many sharing how much they appreciated having a safe, welcoming place to gather, play, and connect - a park that reflects their neighbourhood and strengthens local pride.
A space designed with the community in mind
Reporepo Park has been shaped through mana whenua guidance, cultural narrative, and local input. Its delivery showcases Kāinga Ora’s commitment to thoughtful placemaking and creating neighbourhoods where people feel proud to live. The park provides a welcoming space for recreation, relaxation, and connection - supporting the wellbeing of current and future residents.
Looking ahead
Reporepo Park is set to become a vibrant hub for Aorere for many years to come, whether for whānau outings, play, or community activities. A couple of small-scale activation events are planned for the new year and will be shared through our Facebook page, so keep an eye out for updates.