Ngāti Pārau gifts Z service station new name

Z Energy (Z) has been gifted a new name for one of its retail sites in Ahuriri Napier. 

Previously 'Z Kennedy Road', the site has been renamed ‘Z Mataruahou’ following collaboration between Z and the local hapū and mana whenua, Ngāti Pārau.

Over the past two and a half years, Z has been reviewing its retail site network, and where appropriate, engaging with local iwi and mana whenua to explore the opportunity to rename existing sites.

“It’s part of a broader commitment to Te Ao Māori and reflects our clearer understanding of the historical context in the areas where we operate," explains Tim Bailey, Z’s Head of Retail.

When local retailers Hamish and Rachael Waddington were welcomed to Waiohiki marae with their team, the renaming of Z Kennedy Road was born from a meaningful and authentic connection with the local hapū. With the Z site also undergoing construction as part of Z’s refresh programme*, Hamish explains that it felt like the perfect time to explore the opportunity to rename the site.

“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."

The freshly named site was officially unveiled on the morning of Thursday 4 September. Ngāti Pārau Hapū Trust's Chairman, Joe Tareha says the naming of this Z station as 'Z Mataruahou' represents more than a name.

“It symbolises a step in the journey of building a strong relationship between Z Energy and Ngāti Pārau. It acknowledges the mana of the whenua and its story, while also setting a precedent for meaningful collaboration and recognition moving forward," explains Joe.

Mataruahou can be interpreted as “a new face found” or “a new reflection from a hole in the ground.” The name has endured through generations and remains the traditional Māori name for what became known as Bluff Hill, Hospital Hill, or Napier Hill.

The renaming of Z Kennedy Road is part of a wider work programme. In 2024, Z identified four sites located in Hamilton and Taranaki, working in collaboration with local mana whenua to see these sites appropriately renamed. Each site's name was gifted by the hapū, with careful consideration of the history of the whenua, ensuring cultural appropriateness and historical accuracy.

Tim Bailey explains why working with mana whenua is important. “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.”

Z plans to continue reviewing its retail site network to identify other sites where name changes may be appropriate.

*Z's refresh programme

Launched in 2022, Z’s refresh programme aims to deliver a modern and consistent experience for customers across the Z retail network that has the ability to adapt with evolving travel habits. Set for completion in 2026, the programme aims to enhance customer experience by introducing a fresh, contemporary look, including the inclusion of bilingual signage and prioritising convenience with quality food and drink offers. Upgrades include professionally trained baristas, expanded food preparation areas and the addition of more EV charging stations.