The 200-year commemoration of the arrival of the Gospel to Arorangi will be a significant event for the Tinomana Ariki tribe.

An official launch was held yesterday at the Calvary Hall when the “kura” proclamation from Tinomana Tokerau Ariki of Vaka Puaikura was announced for the historic 2023 event.

“While we will be celebrating the faithful service of Reverend John Williams and Reverend Papehia for the very first time, we will also be commemorating Tinomana Enuarurutini Ariki legacy to be acknowledged and remembered – to continue this legacy to live on through the generations to come, a worthy historical truth,” noted Tinomana Tokerau Ariki.

She sanctioned the dates of Wednesday, July 26 and Thursday, July 27, 2023, for the celebrations of 200 years of the arrival of Christianity to Arorangi. The event will be held at the Au Maru Palace and the Arorangi CICC.

The celebration will include four new commemorative stones dedicated to the faithful service of Rev John Williams, Rev Papehia and Tinomana Enuarurutini.

Tinomana Tokerau Ariki is calling on the people of Puaikura, the Pa Enua and overseas to support the celebration of feasts, the ordination of the four stones, raising of funds, procuring of garments, and participation in the celebrations.

A team of dedicated volunteers have established the “200 years of Christianity Committee” and have been working on the preparations of the event.

Co-chairman of the project are Tere Taio and Okirua Teokoiti, and the coordinator is Patrick Arioka. The doors are always open for those who would like to be a part of the team.

The theme for the celebration is “Aroa ia, ei Oronga” which is inspired by the Gospel – St Matthew 10:8, “You have received without paying, so give without being paid.”

A huge amount of funds will be needed to host the 3000 families who are expected to attend the event.

Arioka says the project will require more than the share of the traditional obligations of the families of the Tinomana tribe.

Sponsorship packages of gold, silver and bronze are available for individuals and businesses to select if they wish to make a monetary contribution, however any donations will be appreciated.