Ōrongomai Marae

Alloyfold successfully transformed the seating at Ōrongomai Marae in Upper Hutt, Wellington, addressing a unique challenge that required balancing respect for Māori cultural heritage with modern functionality. 

The marae needed a seating solution that would honour their sacred space adorned with stunning traditional whakairo (carvings) and tukutuku (woven panels) whilst providing practical comfort for diverse community gatherings including hui, cultural ceremonies, and celebrations.

Our solution was 42 Slimline Church Chairs, specifically configured with understated black-grey fabric and silvervein powder-coated steel frames. 

These chairs were chosen to complement rather than compete with the magnificent traditional artwork. 

Each Slimline Church chair features AirTech foam padding for extended comfort during lengthy karakia and discussions, whilst their stackable and linkable design provides essential flexibility for different event configurations.

The results speak for themselves. 

At just 7.7kg each, the Slimline Church chairs are easily rearranged by volunteers and can stack up to 8 high for efficient storage when the whare needs clearing for cultural performances. 

They link together to create stable rows during formal proceedings, transforming the space from intimate whakapapa discussions to large community celebrations. 

The installation has enhanced comfort whilst maintaining the mana and dignity of this important cultural venue.

With a 25-year frame warranty and Alloyfold's two decades of experience serving New Zealand churches and community centres, this project demonstrates our commitment to providing church seating solutions that respect cultural heritage whilst delivering the durability, comfort, and versatility