PĀNUI | Ahi Kaa Led Karakia At Tokanui

On 23 February 2026, Ahi Kaa led karakia formally uplifting the name Tokanui - the name associated with the former mental hospital institution - and restoring the site to its original ancestral name, Mokoroa.

Image: Uri of Ngāti Ngutu, Ngāti Huiao, Ngāti Paia, Ngāti Paretekawa, government agencies and contractors on Mokoroa hill after ceremony

"Today we gathered on the ancestral whenua at Mokoroa Pā with solemn respect and clear purpose" says Ahi Kaa rep Neketi Toataua.

Representatives from LINZ, contractors, Heritage New Zealand, and the archaeologists were present for the occassion.

“This project includes removing 74 buildings, 14km of underground services, and works to address contaminated land” said Matt Bradley from Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand.

Image: Tokanui Psychiatric Hospital, 1993. Stuff / Waikato-Times.

"We're aiming to recycle materials like native timber and concrete, while also creating local jobs and training opportunities for rangatahi (young people)"

This is a significant step forward in restoring the land for future generations.

Ahi Kaa acknowledge the history carried by this land, the displacement of our people, the misuse of this place, and the physical and psychological suffering endured there. These truths form part of our shared history, and we honour all those who were affected.

"This ceremony marked a deliberate step toward restoration. Through remembrance and the observance of tikanga, we seek to restore balance, uphold mana, and reaffirm our enduring connection to this whenua."

If you would like to be kept updated on how this mahi progresses, you can sign up to receive a digital newsletter on our website here: https://www.linz.govt.nz/subscribe-tokanui