Plans are under way to build a $15 million Ngati Porou museum and cultural centre on the East Coast, between Ruatoria and Tikitiki.
Project team leader Heni Tawhiwhirangi hails the new complex as a potential vehicle for economic, social and political growth.
Ms Tawhiwhirangi said the project has a 12-month
timeframe for construction once finance and consents have been obtained.