Porirua wins first kilikiti title
There was plenty of singing and dancing amid the inter- school rivalry as the inaugural Secondary Schools Kilikiti Competition took place at Ascot Park last week.
The traditional game, also known as Samoan cricket, is played with a very hard rubber ball and wooden bats, its rules are as much about culture as they are sport, with laughter and feasting an integral part of the occasion.
Rules are varied and team numbers are unlimited – Aotea had more than 20 on the field at the February 28 contest – and males and females play together, though only men can bowl to men.
When a wicket fell, a member of the fielding team would start off a round of follow-the-leader dancing, clapping and movement.
At Ascot Park there were plenty of big hits and big scores. Porirua and Aotea colleges won their matches over Bishop Viard and Mana, respectively, with Porirua winning a close contest in the final.
Organiser Dave Mackenzie said it is hoped next year schools from Wellington and the Hutt Valley can be involved, as kilikiti is popular right across the region. It is a fun, supportive environment that promotes young people being active, he said.
‘‘This was a chance for us to bring it to the schools, whanau and the community – the interest is definitely there. You can tell the students are right into it. They feel comfortable having a go.’’
Langi’s Island Styles, Meriani Shop, Eljays IT Ltd, Pacific Health Services Porirua and Porirua City Council were supportive in putting the event together, Mr Mackenzie said.