Bumps in a small stretch of the main road in Arorangi (from the Raemaru Park driveway to the Arorangi CICC Mission grounds) have been smoothed out and hot mix sealed in preparation for the Bicentennial Arrival of the Christianity celebrations to Arorangi/Puaikura in a few weeks’ time.

The new sealed part of the road is a gift to Tinomana Tokerau Ariki and the people of Arorangi, thanks to the generosity of Chris Vaile of Triad Ltd and his staff.

Tinomana Tokerau Ariki, the Arorangi 200 Years Arrival of Christianity Committee on behalf of the Aronga Mana, Te Evangelia, Members of Parliament, and the people of Puaikura have hosted Vaile and his staff to lunch at the Au Maru Palace.

The lunch was to formally express their appreciation and gratitude to Vaile and his staff for their “very generous contribution” towards the 200 celebrations, said a spokes-person.

Vaile thanked Tinomana Tokerau Ariki for allowing his company to do the work and Tauei Solomon for his support, also wishing the people of Arorangi joy and peace during the celebrations.

Tinomana Tokerau Ariki would also like to acknowledge Minster Albert Nicholas for his assistance in the road tar sealing work, which was of no cost to the government.

Earlier this month the Ngati Papehia 200 Years Celebration Preparation meeting was held at Au Maru for the 26 & 27 July events.

Apparel for the 200 year Gospel celebrations are also on sale.

The Arorangi 200 Years Arrival of Christianity Committee are finalising the programme which will be released to Vaka Puaikura and the community.