Huaki
1
HUAKI
“To bring to Light”
Edition 10
Friday, July 26, 2024
Celebrating Whānau and Culture at Kaikohe’s Puanga Matariki Festival O
n Saturday, 13th July, the Memorial Park in Kaikohe was transformed into a vibrant celebration of culture and whanaungatanga. The Puanga Matariki Festival, a free community event, brought to life by the collective efforts of Te Kotahitanga e Mahi Kaha Trust, Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services, Te Hau Ora O Ngāpuhi, Te Rūnanga Ā Iwi O Ngāpuhi, Te Whare Awhina O Ngāti Tautahi, and Te Putahi Nui O Rehua, showcased their commitment to the well-being and cultural heritage of our people.
A special highlight was the Carnival Youth Space, fully backed by Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services. Our tamariki had a blast, taking turns to win prizes while learning about Puanga and Matariki. Free rides, bouncy castles, and interactive challenges kept them entertained and educated. More than just fun, this space was a place for our youth to connect, understand their identity, and feel the support of their wider whānau. It was a celebration of their potential and a reminder that they are valued members of our community.
The festival was full of activity with free kai, clothes, tamariki games, carnival rides, and fun activities with prizes up for grabs. Thanks to the Bald Angels Charitable Trust, whānau could pick up free clothing, which flew off the racks. Kai donations from Makana Confectionery and Kainui Pack and Cool were gratefully received by the community.
Whānau gathered to enjoy a shared hangi, appreciating the chance to wananga over delicious kai. The day also featured stunning kapa haka performances by Ngā Moko a Rahiri, our talented Ngāpuhi taitamariki, showcasing the richness of our cultural heritage. Guest speakers added depth to the celebration, sharing mātauranga and stories passed down through generations. These speakers generously gave their time and wisdom, strengthening the pride and connection of whānau and mokopuna. The festival grounds were filled with stall tents, including one featuring local musicians who had everyone tapping their feet, with some of our kaumatua and kuia enjoying a spot of line dancing. Most importantly, whānau left with a full puku, free gifts, prizes, and seedlings for their māra, feeling a strong sense of kotahitanga. Free events like this are rare in Kaikohe, and the Puanga Matariki Festival drew many whānau and their tamariki. Even the winter rains took a break, blessing Kaikohe with a sunny day of celebrations. The Ngāpuhi Collective’s efforts culminated in a beautiful and meaningful celebration of the Māori New Year, filled with culture, heritage, fun, and the strong embrace of whanaungatanga.
When a life is lost on our roads, tears are cried by whānau and friends.
To our Earth Mother Papatūānuku That is One Tear Too Many – Kotahi Roimata Rawa