WDC junket

Whangarei Mayor Vince Cocurullo will lead a delegation to French Polynesia from 25 July to 1 August. 

The cultural exchange follows the signing of a sister city relationship between the WDC and the municipalities of Ra‘iātea, at the Terenga Parāoa Marae in March 2024. Its purpose was to “strengthen relationships across the Polynesian Triangle and restore ancestral connections through contemporary civic and cultural exchanges.”

A staff report written for the council meeting to approve the trip was written by the manager of the council's Māori Outcomes department (yes, they have a Māori Outcomes Department!). It says,

“To ensure cultural integrity and engagement with appropriate tikanga, Taipari Munro will accompany the Mayor’s delegation in his capacity as Whangārei Hapū representative, providing guidance and acting as a conduit between local protocols and the hosting communities in French Polynesia. His longstanding relationships in the region and his leadership in initiating this relationship have been central to its success. “

“In addition to the mayoral delegation, a separate invitation was extended to the Whangārei hapū, specifically a cultural group made up of hapū members from across the performing arts, cultural leadership, education, business and social sectors. Their participation is a vital component of the broader kaupapa of Pacific reconnection. Inspired by the example set by the Ra‘iātea delegation in December… the hapū group have taken seriously their responsibility to honour the invitation and meet the target of 30 participants, prompting a request also to Whangārei District Council for support to assist in meeting the delegation size and maintaining a strong cultural presence.”

Cultural enrichment is a clear and ongoing opportunity. Through formal relationships with cities such as Haikou and Ra‘iātea, Whangārei can continue to strengthen cultural connections and visibility — supporting events, exchanges, and ceremonies that deepen shared understanding and celebrate cultural heritage. Initiatives like incorporating language, arts, and cultural performance.”

The report says two WDC staff members will accompany the Mayor, at a total cost of $8,284.  The Mayor will be personally funding his costs. Who will fund the 30-strong Maori contingent was not mentioned, other than stating the WDC will be asked to assist.

Here’s how councillors voted.

In favour of ratepayers funding the trip: Mayor Cocurullo, Crs Benney (Coastal-Hikurangi ward), Connop (Urban ward), Halse (Bream Bay ward), Harding (Maori ward), Holmes (Whangarei Heads ward), Peters (Urban ward), Ruka (Maori ward).

Against: Crs Couper (Bream Bay ward), Olsen (Urban ward), Reid (Maungakaia ward), Yovich (Urban ward).

WDC Agenda (starts page 213): HERE >>>