19 February 2009 Media Statement

Te Matatini launch heralds a fabulous festival

Today’s Te Matatini Kapa Haka Festival launch signals this year’s competition will again be fiercely contested, say Labour leader Phil Goff and Maori Affairs spokesman Parekura Horomia.

The pair attended this morning’s powhiri launching the festival and said it was obvious the four day event was going to showcase a formidable series of performances from kapa haka groups throughout the motu.

“Te Matatini has become a spectacular biennial event, bringing together the best of the country’s kapa haka performers and inspiring renewed interest in this performing art in many of our rangatahi,” Mr Goff said.

“Strengthening Maori performing arts at local and national levels has also led to a growing international profile, attracting overseas visitors both to the festival itself and to New Zealand - which is great.

“The last Government supported this year’s festival with $1.25 million in funding in recognition of how important the event has become. It is a wonderful way to bring communities together and has established such a following that over 30,000 people are expected to attend the weekend event in Tauranga,” Mr Goff said.

Parekura Horomia, a devoted attendee, said he was looking forward to another hotly contested competition and was delighted Te Arawa would be back on stage again this year.

“Te Matatini sparks so many emotions. It’s an adrenalin rush, it’s powerful, it’s beautiful and it’s a great opportunity to observe the tikanga of different iwi. It’s always heart warming to see so many New Zealanders of all cultures embracing the event.

“I wish all the performers the best of luck and plenty of fortitude,” Parekura Horomia said.

ENDS

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