Napier Fuel Station Renamed to Honor Local Māori Heritage

A service station in Ahuriri, Napier has officially changed its name from ‘Z Kennedy Road’ to ‘Z Mataruahou’, recognizing the cultural significance of the site to the local Māori community, Ngāti Pārau. This renaming is part of a broader initiative by Z Energy Limited to engage with local iwi and hapū, enhancing relationships and acknowledging the historical context of the areas where they operate.

Joe Tareha, Chairman of Ngāti Pārau Hapū Trust, described the partnership with Z Energy as a significant step towards whakawhanaungatanga, which translates to building strong relationships. “It acknowledges the mana of the whenua and its story while also setting a precedent for meaningful collaboration and recognition moving forward,” he stated. The name ‘Mataruahou’ refers to Napier Hill and is interpreted as ‘a new face found’ or ‘a new reflection from a hole in the ground’.

The shift in naming reflects Z Energy’s commitment to Te Ao Māori, as outlined by Tim Bailey, the company’s Head of Retail. “Working with mana whenua is part of our broader commitment and reflects our clearer understanding of the historical context in the areas where we operate,” he said.

Z Energy has been actively engaging with local iwi and hapū throughout New Zealand over the past two and a half years. This effort began after concerns were raised about the cultural appropriateness of certain station names, such as ‘Z – K Drive’ in Hamilton. Following discussions, several sites, including Kahikatea, Te Papanui, and Tuhikaramea in Hamilton, as well as the Huatoki station in New Plymouth, adopted new names reflecting their local heritage.

Bailey emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “It ensures we can carry out this work with care, consideration, and integrity. We’re incredibly grateful for their leadership, support, and generosity on our Te Ao Māori journey.”

As part of this renaming process, Z retailers Hamish and Rachael Waddington were welcomed onto the Waiohiki marae of Ngāti Kahungunu. Hamish Waddington noted that the timing was ideal for the renaming, coinciding with a store renovation that includes the introduction of bilingual signage. “Having a refreshed name that is meaningful to the community we serve was important, and getting to meet local mana whenua here in Ahuriri to work together on something we’d all be proud of mattered just as much as finding the right name,” he remarked.

The new name, Z Mataruahou, was unveiled on September 4, 2023, marking a meaningful milestone in the journey towards greater cultural sensitivity and community engagement for Z Energy. This initiative exemplifies the company’s dedication to fostering positive relationships with local communities and honoring their rich histories.