A new home for kaumatua has been officially opened in Hawke's Bay.
The facility in Flaxmere has 10 en-suite bedrooms, a shared lounge, laundry, kitchen, and outdoor living areas.
A live-in housekeeper will provide two meals a day, with housework and chores done by residents and volunteers.
The idea to build a kaumatua whare was first suggested in 1986.
It's been built by Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga Charitable trust.
Former chief executive Alayna Watene says the home is whanau-friendly.
She says the kaupapa Maori feature is a large pantry - perfect if the elders' mokopuna (grandchildren or great grandchildren) drop off puha (sow thistle) a pig, or some freshly caught fish.
Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga is spending $1.5 million on the project. The Government will provide about $500,000.
