Murihuku Marae has a new uniquely whale shaped wharekai (dining hall) after 'Hine-O-Te-Iwi' was officially reopened on Friday (2 Jun).

The architecturally designed building, which has been 2-years in the making, rests on a mauri stone and boasts not only catering and dining facilities but also extensive meeting and teaching areas.

It replaces an earlier building that was built in 1983.

Finance Minister Grant Robertson admires some of the carvings within Hine-O-Te-Iwi, after its official reopening. Photo: Southland App

Self sufficiency, low energy use and zero waste were also important considerations for the $15m project.

Natural lighting, solar panels and a rainwater collection system have all been incorporated into the building, while the sites own wetlands will act as a filter for storm water.

Hine-O-Te-Iwi, which sits next to the marae's existing Te Rakitauneke (meeting house), is expected to become a hub for community activities.