Manukau’s Waitangi Day Celebrations Set to Excite!

Toi o Manukau invites all Manukau residents to Waitangi Day celebrations on 6 February 2003 at Hayman Park in the Manukau city centre.

Powhiri and speeches start the day at 9.30am, followed by a wide range of exciting entertainment from 11am to 4pm.

Co-ordinator Chantelle Whaiapu says that Manukau has developed a reputation for its Waitangi Day festival, as a professionally organised feast of culture in a relaxing family and festive environment.

“In Manukau our Waitangi Day celebrations are an opportunity for the many ethnic groups in the city to get together and celebrate in the true spirit of harmony. The programme is a multi cultural musical celebration, which showcases the enormous diversity and talent of our people.

“We’re excited to have the legendary R&B group Ardijah and hugely popular King Kapisi and Whirimako Black all performing on the day. Along with Maori cultural group Manawanui Kapahaka Roopu from Manurewa, we also have Indian and Asian dancers performing. And the NZ representatives to the International Battle of the Year breakdancing competition in Germany Qwik n Ezy breakers will be showcasing their amazing breakdance talents.

“Our arts marquee will be well worth a visit. You’ll be able to see and participate in the creation of traditional Maori and ethnic art, including lei making, weaving and Maori hand games, at no cost. We also have four on-site graffiti artists creating their art around the park during the day,” Mrs Whaiapu says.

A highlight of the day will be the Treaty of Waitangi workshop starting at 12 noon. Representatives from various marae will be in attendance to participate in an open discussion forum on the Treaty. The workshop is free of charge.

There will be plenty of ethnic foods and arts and craft stalls, give aways, kids activities, rides and more. So bring your family and a picnic basket and enjoy the uniqueness that is Waitangi Day in Manukau.

This is the seventh year that Toi O Manukau and Manukau City Council have worked in partnership to hold Waitangi Day celebrations in the City. Toi O Manukau is a community organisation which acts as a catalyst for the promotion of Maori art and culture.

The day is also supported by the Ministry of Culture & Heritage and Raukura Hauora O Tainui Trust.

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