An Auckland marae that took in homeless people has opened its doors once again to the community for its first Christmas at the Paa event.
Hurimoana Denis is the MC for the night at Christmas at the Paa. Photo: RNZ / John Boynton
Hundreds of people have arrived at Te Puea Memorial Marae in Mangere Bridge to enjoy a night of entertainment and festive cheer.
Last year the marae made international headlines in its efforts to house and support the homeless in Auckland.
The marae continues to provide temporary housing and social services to whānau who have nowhere to stay.
Marae worker John Kukutai said the marae had received enormous support from around the country in the last two years.
"They supported us and gave a lot of aroha to us - so we thought we'd give something back to the community and the country."
Mr Kukutai said it was good to see whānau who had been housed at the Marae return for the Christmas event.
"They've come back to support the kaupapa and it sort of brings back memories of when they were here."
The event is expected to run until 10 tonight with musical performances by Troy Kingi and Rob Ruha.
