Huaki
1
HUAKI
“To bring to Light”
Edition 9
Friday, June 28, 2024
Celebrate the Māori New Year at the First-Ever Puanga Matariki Festival! In the heart of our community, a landmark event is set to unfold next month, bringing together whānau, friends, and visitors to celebrate the Māori New Year. The Puanga Matariki Festival, organised by the Ngāpuhi Collective, promises a day of cultural richness, entertainment, and community spirit. Scheduled for the 13th of July 2024, from 10am to 4pm, this free event at Memorial Park Kaikohe is an occasion not to be missed.
T
he Puanga Matariki Festival is more than an event; it’s a celebration of culture, history, and community. Expect to enjoy Kapa Haka performances, showcasing the beauty and strength of traditions. A highlight of the festival will be the “Puanga’s Got Talent Search,” where local talent will take the stage. This is an opportunity for the community to come together, support local performers, and celebrate the skills and creativity of the region. Guest speakers will share kōrero about Puanga and Matariki, deepening our understanding of these important times in our calendar. Their insights will enrich ideas of connection, whakapapa, and the world around us. For those keen to learn and engage, wānanga will offer hands-on experiences in various cultural practices. These workshops are designed to be both educational and enjoyable. The festival will host a Carnival Youth Space, fully funded by Ngāpuhi Iwi Social
Services. Specially designed to entertain and engage our younger attendees. With carnival games and interactive activities, there’s something for everyone. This space aims to create a fun and inclusive environment where youth and whānau can enjoy themselves. Each activity station will represent one of the Matariki stars, offering extra learning about each star, and their significance to the environment and what they tell us about the year to come. The free kai station will ensure everyone can share a meal together, fostering unity and a shared experience. Additionally, there will be a range of prizes and giveaways, generously donated by local businesses, clubs, and both government and non-government organisations, adding excitement to the day’s activities. The Puanga Matariki Festival is made possible through the collaboration of the Ngāpuhi Collective, including Te Kotahitanga e Mahi Kaha Trust, Ngāpuhi Iwi Social Services, Te Hau Ora O Ngāpuhi,
Te Rūnanga Ā Iwi O Ngāpuhi, and Te Whare Awhina O Ngāti Tautahi. Their combined efforts and shared vision reflect a commitment to the community’s well-being and cultural heritage. By bringing people together to celebrate culture and heritage, the Puanga Matariki Festival helps build a stronger, more connected community. It provides a positive environment for whānau and mokopuna, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.
Join us on Saturday 13th of July at Memorial Park Kaikohe for a day of enjoyment, learning, and whanaungatanga. Celebrate the Māori New Year and make lasting memories at the first-ever Puanga Matariki Festival. For more information or to register for the talent search, please contact: puangamatariki@gmail.com.
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