MEDIA RELEASE

Māori village bursting with activity during Waitangi Day festival

28 January 2020

Two marae, two stages and a thermal village are set to host a massive array of live entertainment and activities at Rotorua’s official Waitangi Day event next week.

Tūnohopū Marae Trust encourages locals and visitors to the city to come along to Waitangi – For the Love of the People, being held in Ōhinemutu on Thursday 6 February, from 10am to 3pm. 

The Waitangi Day event encompasses the area from Arataua Street to Katoa Jets at The Lakefront. The event will feature a strong Ngāti Whakaue and Te Arawa whānau influence, through kapa haka, tours, demonstrations, fashion and film.  

Tūnohopū Marae chair, Norma Sturley, says she is rapt the local community has shown its support for the festival.

“This is the first time Ōhinemutu has hosted a Waitangi Day event, and our community has really pulled through to ensure it’s a success. From our generous funders to the awesome entertainers – everyone’s come onboard to make our inaugural festival one to be remembered.” 

The Ruapeka will feature a market with stallholders selling food, clothing, and arts and crafts, while entertainment on stage includes, Tempist Fujit, Social Wowfare, Stave, Tunes with T&T, and DJ Jay in O-Town, along with short films. 

Te Papaiōuru Marae will showcase kapahaka, local singer/actor Atutahi Potaka-Dewes, performances by the cast of 8 Scott Ave - The Musical and Rotorua’s ethnic community, as well as a Māori fashion show and food demonstrations.

Throughout the village there’ll be a live mural display by local artist and teacher, Taumata Solomon; tours of the marae, St Faith’s Church, Muruika Soldiers Memorial and Mokoia Island; Te Arawa weaponry and uhi tamoko demonstrations; hoe waka rides; traditional Māori games; animation displays; maara kai planting; bouncy castles; the multi-cultural Parade of Nations; and more.

“The day will not only be fun and entertaining, but it also provides an opportunity to promote cultural awareness, through a special day of unity, interaction and inspiration,” says Mrs Sturley.

Waitangi – For the Love of the People is on Thursday 6 February, from 10am to 3pm, at Ōhinemutu. 

ENDS