The late Sally Uerata’s contribution to the Pirongia Heritage and Information Centre was recognised with a posthumous presentation to her whānau.
Sally Uerata
Uerata, who died on December 6 last year, was a foundation member of the centre committee with Lady Raiha Mahuta in 2000.
With Mahuta, Uerata negotiated the naming of Rangimarie Reserve on which the centre stands in Franklin Street.
Uerata grew up in Robertson Rd, Ngutunui and attended Pirongia School. She received knowledge of many sites of significance to Māori in and around Pirongia from her mother Kate McOnie.
She also campaigned for the old Pirongia School building to be moved and preserved, making flax kono baskets to sell in aid of the project.
She was also involved in getting Matakitaki Reserve recognised as a special reserve, and involved in the development Te Ngahere Reserve
A life membership was presented to Uerata’s daughter Melissa Campbell, her brother Murray Uerata, and his three daughters Mihi, Ara and Maia.
