Future of Hato Pētera opened to proposals

The Wāwahi Ara Board has launched a Preliminary Indication of Interest (PII) process to shape the future use of the Hato Pētera site. Organisations are invited to submit high-level proposals that deliver strong community outcomes alongside the Catholic mission of the site.

Chair Helen Te Hira said the Board is seeking credible, high-impact ideas.

“This is a call for proposals that can activate Hato Pētera with purpose and deliver lasting benefit. We’re looking for capability, vision and a commitment to getting it right.” The PII is a non-binding first stage to assess concepts and delivery capability.

Catholic Diocese of Auckland General Manager James van Schie said the process respects the site’s significance.
“Hato Pētera is an important place, and this process allows thoughtful consideration of its future.”

Dame Naida Glavish, speaking on behalf of the Kāhui Kaumātua guiding the initiative alongside the Bishop of Auckland, said:

“We are focused on progress for the future of Hato Pētera — ensuring decisions made today honour its legacy while creating opportunities for generations to come.”

The land is not for sale but long term lease arrangements will be considered. More information: www.hatopetera.com

For further enquiries, please contact: Teresa McNamara, Project Manager – Catholic Diocese of Auckland Email: [email protected] Phone: 021 649 012

Te Waka o Hato Pētera Wāwāhi Ara Appointments

17 December 2025 

Te Waka o Hato Pētera Wāwāhi Ara* 

“Ko P~tera koe, ā ka hanga e ahau taku hāhi ki runga ki tēnei kamaka;
e kore anō e taea taua hāhi e ngā kuwaha o te reinga.” Matiu 16:18 

 Bishop Steve Lowe and the Kāhui Kaumātua o Hato Pētera are pleased to announce the following appointments to Te Waka o Hato Pētera Wāwāhi Ara: 

Wallace Haumaha
Geremy Hema
Susan Huria
Jenny Solomon
Helen Te Hira
Emily Vaka’uta
James van Schie 

 (Brief biographies of each member can be viewed here) 

 They have been appointed for a term of three years. Their mahi will be to work together with the Bishop and Kāhui Kaumātua to restore the mauri of the Hato Pētera site and realising the vision:  

  • To provide education for all, consistent with the intent of the 1850 Crown Grant. 
  • To strengthen the relationship between Māori and the Catholic Church. 
  • To educate within a Māori Katorika framework.

We entrust them and their work to the intercession of Hato Pētera, and wish them every success and blessing. 

Welcoming Mika into the Catholic Church

On Saturday, 13 December, we joyfully welcomed Mika into the Catholic Church and whānau through the sacrament of baptism—a beautiful sign of new life in Christ and belonging to the faith community. It was a wonderful celebration with the regular Hāto Petera Miha congregation alongside Mika’s whānau and friends. Both Manuel and Pa Mark Bond assured Mika that this now means two birthdays each year (and yes, double the presents!).
(Photos shared with permission of Mika’s family).

Community Dinners at Hato Pētera

Each Wednesday evening a free hot nutritious meal is served for those in the Northcote area by Life Community volunteers.  We have made the hall at Hato Pētera available for these dinners.   Last night was a special ‘Christmas Dinner’ with entertainment, games for the tamariki and even Santa made an appearance with bags of lollies!  The first dinner for 2026 will be on Wednesday 12 January.  All are welcome.

Miha continues each month

Miha Māori Mass, Hato Pētera tonight with Takapuna based seminarian Joseph Marr, Manuel Beazley, Anne Gibson and Fr Mark Bond. The next Miha is 6pm, Saturday October 11. Thank you to Pata for the kai.