2024 marked a significant milestone for Waiapu Road, truly our most successful year yet. This period was characterized by remarkable growth as we solidified our position in our fourth year of pakihi life.
The beginning of the year was bittersweet, as we faced the loss of our pāpā, who played a pivotal role in my life and raised me as his daughter. I took the time needed to grieve and reflect before returning to mahi. I found solace and empowerment in channeling my emotions into creativity, which ultimately birthed the Taikehu Collection, dedicated to my late pāpā.
The beginning of the year was bittersweet, as we faced the loss of our pāpā, who played a pivotal role in my life and raised me as his daughter. I took the time needed to grieve and reflect before returning to mahi. I found solace and empowerment in channeling my emotions into creativity, which ultimately birthed the Taikehu Collection, dedicated to my late pāpā.
As Waiapu Road expanded, my team grew from two to seven members, a critical move to keep pace with our rising demand. I am so grateful for my talented team of wāhine, their tautoko and energy help to keep Waiapu Road a well oiled machine. And, I genuinely enjoy their company. There is laughter wherever we go.
In October, we opened our very first retail store in Hastings with a six-month pop-up lease to explore the potential of a physical location. The experience has been very positive, highlighted by our first ever shopping event, where a queue that stretched for two hours, waited. Customers traveled from Tūranga, Pōneke, Kirikiriroa, and even Kings Country, leaving us overwhelmed with gratitude.
That same month, I attended the MWDI awards in Pōneke, where we proudly received the Employment and Growth Award for 2024. I was accompanied by my darling, who is a pou in my life and all that I do. He is my biggest supporter, cheerleader and even an ear when I just feel like whinging haha. I am so grateful for him, he really is my best friend.
Reflecting on 2024, I recognized not just our potential, but also our strengths and weaknesses. There were challenges alongside our victories, but through it all, we are thankful for everyone involved in our journey, especially our beautiful customers, both old and new, whos passion for our creations fuels us. We couldn't have achieved this without your support— E mihi nui ana!
As we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited about what’s to come. We hope you enjoy Hineraumati and all the fruits she has to bear. We hope that quality whānau time, good kai and rest is on the cards for us all.
As we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited about what’s to come. We hope you enjoy Hineraumati and all the fruits she has to bear. We hope that quality whānau time, good kai and rest is on the cards for us all.
Arohanui,
Jonique and the Waiapu Road team.
