Katikati marks Waitangi Day with vibrant whānau festival

More than 1800 people gathered at the Haiku Reserve in Katikati on 6 February to mark 186 years since the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to celebrate Aotearoa New Zealand today. Organised by the Western Bay Museum, Te Rā o Waitangi Whānau Festival ran from 11am to 3pm and drew crowds of all ages.

Entertainment included a performance by Katikati College's kapa haka group Te Kapa o Uretaraki Wharei, as well as Tauranga's Cook Islands group and Katikati's Indian cultural group. Harjit Kaur, representing the Bay of Plenty Sports & Cultural Club, delivered a speech described as powerful and inspiring, while kaumātua of Te Rereatukahia marae, Tiki Bluegum, performed a karakia and mihi to open the event.

Interactive cultural workshops proved popular, with attendees trying their hand at poi making, harakeke weaving, and Pasifika lei and crown crafting. A wide range of food options were also on offer throughout the afternoon. Katikati News acknowledged photographer Bridie Morris for capturing the colour and energy of the day.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).