Isn’t it fascinating how a simple name can tell a whole story? That’s certainly the case with Homai. Homai is a suburb of Auckland. It is surrounded by Manukau Central. Wiri Hillpark Clendon Park and Manurewa also border it.
Homai’s story begins in the early 1920s. Local Manurewa residents wanted a second train station. John Dreadon was one of them. He and his neighbors lobbied the Manurewa Town Board. Their efforts paid off in 1924. The new train station needed a name. Maurice Harding suggested Homai. This name recognized Dreadon and his neighbors’ gift. They provided the land and financing for the station.
Over time the area around the train station became known as Homai. The name itself has meaning. Homai is a Maori verb. It means to give to me. How fitting for a place built on generosity.
Homai has grown significantly since its early days. As of June 2024 Homai had an estimated population of 15000. That’s a population density of 6608 people per square kilometer. In 2023 the census recorded 12444 residents. This was an increase of 4.3% since 2018. It was a 25.9% increase since 2013.
Homai is a diverse community. The 2023 census revealed a mix of ethnicities. 16.9% identified as European. 26.4% identified as Maori. 48.8% identified as Pasifika. 25.2% identified as Asian. 1.9% identified as Middle Eastern Latin American and African New Zealanders.
English is the most spoken language. Maori Samoan and other languages are also spoken. Religious beliefs are varied. Christianity is the most common. Hinduism Islam and Maori religious beliefs are also present. A significant portion of the population has no religious affiliation.
Homai also values education. Manurewa High School is a secondary school here. Homai School is a primary school. Homai School opened in 1955. It was originally named Manurewa North School.
Homai Kindergarten has been an important place for over 45 years. It celebrates diversity. It encourages families to share their cultures. The kindergarten focuses on relationships kindness and respect. It has a spacious outdoor environment. Children can explore and express themselves. The kindergarten is an Enviroschool. It teaches children to care for the environment.
So as we stand here let’s remember the story of Homai. It is a story of community. It is a story of giving. It is a story of growth and diversity. It is a story that continues to unfold.