Katikati Festival of Cultures Returns with Extended Flag Parade

The Katikati Festival of Cultures is set to return on 5 April, celebrating the rich diversity of cultures that call Katikati and the wider Western Bay of Plenty home. The event forms part of the broader Flavours of Plenty Festival and will begin with a flag parade at 10am, departing from Katikati College and making its way along Carisbrooke Street to Moore Park.

Participants from a wide range of cultural backgrounds are encouraged to walk alongside one another, showcasing their heritage through national flags, music, and traditional clothing. A whakatau will officially open the festivities upon arrival at Moore Park, before the celebrations continue through until 2pm.

From 11am, Moore Park will come alive with live performances, interactive workshops, arts and crafts stalls, and food vendors offering flavours from around the world. Festival of Cultures committee members Vicki Lambert and Kylie Watkins encouraged everyone to get involved — people can register in advance at katikati.org.nz to reserve a flag, or simply turn up on the day and join in the fun.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).