Founded in 2023, local kaiwhakairo Damian Mackie was presented with the opportunity to turn an old boat shed into a gallery. A stone's throw away from Whakaraupō Carving Centre where he works, carves, and teaches, Rei became a way to bring Māori art to the local Lyttelton community. 

Lyttelton, Ōhinehou, is a peculiar place, one that connects people by land and sea, enriched by its port heritage, and kept alive by its creative scene. Many local artists had already been involved with the carving centre, whether it was supporting rangatahi in carving programmes, delivering workshops, or just stopping by for a cup of tea. When the idea for Rei came about, it was impossible to say no to the help that was offered. It was the humble reminder that, ‘nāku te rourou nāhau te rourou, ka ora ai te iwi / with your basket and my basket, we will feed the people’.

Within a short span of time, we have delivered numerous exhibitions highlighting an array of creative practices. Operating on artist support and the mana of Kāti Wheke, Rei continues to hold a firm position as a community-led Māori space in Te Waipounamu. Te Whare o Rei is built by the people for the people.