Wednesday 24 November 2004

Local idols to take the stage at Aranui Festival

Organisers of this year’s Aranui Family Festival on Saturday 4 December believe they have got the mix of great entertainment, food and information just right.

“About 7,000 people attended last year’s Affirm Festival and we are expecting it to be even bigger and better this year,” convenor Rachael Fonotia said. Among the star attractions at 3Affirm will be high profile band Adeaze with guest singer Aaradhna. Many of Aranui’s most talented entertainers will also be there, with performances from bands such as F.U.S.A, Que, Sista Waitoa and a number of school cultural and kapahaka groups.

“The first Affirm Idol will be one of the highlights,” Ms Fonotia said. “We have picked the best performers from Idol competitions held in six local schools and there are some real stars in the making.”

Information on careers, training opportunities, education, health services and a wide array of other subjects will be available from the Festival’s information stalls. Groups to be represented range from Christchurch City Libraries and the Cancer Society to He Oranga Pounamu and the Tenants Protection Association.

“While the Festival is designed for Aranui people, we are hoping families from throughout Christchurch will take part in the day,” Ms Fonotia says.

Food from Aranui’s many cultures will be available and entertainment for children will be part of the carnival-like atmosphere. Activities for kids will include kite flying, running races, face-painting, children’s entertainment, basketball and a giant mega slide.

The festival has its roots locally. The first event in 2002 was organised by the Aranui community as part of the Aranui Community Renewal Project – a partnership between the Christchurch City Council, Housing NZ and the local community. This year’s festival is being organised by the Aranui Community Trust Inc Society ( ACTIS). Major sponsors include ACTIS, Christchurch City Council, Housing New Zealand Corporation and Eureka Trust.

The 3Affirm Festival will run from 11am until 4pm on Saturday 4 December at Wainoni Park, Hampshire St. It will be an auahi kore, smokefree and alcohol free event. No dogs will be allowed on the Park during the festival. If wet, it will be held at Cowles Stadium, 170 Pages Road.

ENDS

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