New Community Tunutunu Kai Trailer Launched with Support from Unison

Te Taiwhenua o Te Whanganui ā Orotu has officially launched a new community resource – a fully functional barbecue trailer – with the generous support and sponsorship of Unison Networks (Unison), Hawke’s Bay’s local power lines company. The launch took place last month at Kohupātiki Marae, one of the eight marae associated with Te Taiwhenua.

The barbecue trailer is designed to support community events, provide manaakitanga, and strengthen whanaungatanga across the rohe. Equipped with two large gas-powered hot plates, ample storage, and a portable, road-ready design, the trailer will be available for use at marae, hui, and wider community gatherings.

The concept and exterior design of the trailer were developed by Pereri King on behalf of Te Taiwhenua o Te Whanganui ā Orotu, reflecting the organisation’s strong connection to its people and its eight marae – Te Hāroto, Tangoio, Petane, Wharerangi, Waiohiki, Moteo, Timi Kara, and Kohupātiki.

Api Robin, Chair of Kohupātiki Marae, acknowledged the value of the trailer to marae and whānau across Te Whanganui ā Orotu.

“This trailer is about more than just cooking kai – it’s about manaakitanga. It’s a practical way we can come together, feed our people, and support the many kaupapa happening within our communities.”

The project was made possible thanks to Unison’s sponsorship, aligning with the company’s commitment to enabling communities to prosper while leading the transition to a sustainable energy future.

Unison Group General Manager Customer, Commercial and Regulatory, Jason Larkin said Unison is proud to support Te Taiwhenua o Te Whanganui ā Orotu with the new Tunutunu Kai trailer, a community barbecue trailer designed to bring whānau and communities together.

“The Tunutunu Kai trailer is about more than preparing kai for community gatherings. It’s a way to connect whānau, share food, and spark kōrero on the issues that matter most across our rohe. Strong, connected communities are at the heart of Hawke’s Bay, and this initiative reflects our commitment to meaningful engagement and supporting the region’s sustainable energy future.”

The barbecue trailer will be available to all eight marae affiliated with Te Taiwhenua o Te Whanganui ā Orotu, providing a practical, shared asset that embodies kotahitanga, manaakitanga, and rangatiratanga in action.