1 February 2005

Manukau's Waitangi Family Day - A Celebration Of Unity

A truly multicultural Family Day to mark Waitangi Day is being held on Sunday 6 February at Hayman Park, Manukau City. Formal mihi and speeches will start the day at 10 am, followed by a wide range of diverse and exciting activities and entertainment throughout the day.

Manukau Mayor Sir Barry Curtis will formally welcome everyone to this year's celebration.

Sir Barry says, "Manukau is leading the way in recognising and promoting the true spirit of Te Tiriti O Waitangi through the annual Waitangi Day Family Festival.

"Our city has developed a reputation for its Waitangi Day festival as a professionally organised feast of culture in a family and festive environment. This is a time to celebrate our cultural diversity as a growing city and count our blessings.

"Toi o Manukau, who have a unique partnership with Manukau City Council to promote Maori art and culture in the city, provide a leadership role on this important occasion efficiently organising the event each year."

Rose Whaiapu, chairperson for Toi o Manukau Maori Arts and Culture Trust says, "This festival, which is expected to attract over 10,000 people, is a day that creates understanding and camaraderie amongst people of many different ethnic backgrounds. This celebration is a building bridge to information and knowledge around this country's nationhood.

"Toi o Manukau's vision is to increase the understanding of the significance of the Treaty of Waitangi for all people and the best way to do that is through the sharing of kai, dance, arts and craft and of course making the day exciting for the entire family. The theme for 2005 is whakawhanaungatanga - the bringing together of people/families.

"The main stage will showcase the best Manukau talent including Dei Hamo, 3 Houses Down, Urban Beat and Dziah with guest artists Katchafire. Master of Ceremonies will be Rewi Spraggon accompanied by Niwa Milroy from Maori Television.

"The Arts marquee will showcase the Toi exhibition featuring traditional and contemporary Maori and Pacific art works. A shopping village will sell local food and merchandise and feature local Maori designers. A debate will be staged with invited guest participants, covering current topics of interest in New Zealand today - and the occasion wouldn't be complete without a children's area offering free rides and activities.

"This is the ninth year Toi o Manukau and Manukau City Council have worked successfully in partnership to hold the celebration in our city; bring your family, friends and a picnic basket and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Waitangi Day in Manukau"

This free event will be held in Hayman Park, corner of Davies Ave and Wiri Station Road, from 11am to 6pm

For further information, visit www.manukau.govt.nz

ENDS

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