1000 faces gather
A Porirua ‘‘ reunion’’ could become an annual event after 1000 people gathered in Porirua Park, inspired by a Facebook group celebrating the city.
Organiser Dennis Makalio Jr, who set up the group in July, says the Homecoming event was a huge success, attracting a healthy crowd on August 19 despite poor weather.
‘‘ The vibe was awesome, I think that was one of the big things about the day,’’ he says. Mayor Nick Leggett opened the festivities at 3.30pm, and the crowd was entertained by Otara Pacific dance group SaMove Dance Crew and Porirua reggae band Sticks and Shanty.
Locals took to the stage to talk about memories of growing up in Porirua, Mr Makalio says.
‘‘ The MCs kept the whole crowd alive, they kept everyone entertained, they made everyone kind of engaged with each other.’’ Prizes were given out all day. The main event was a group photo to mark the occasion, taken in the grandstand.
Mr Makalio is keen to organise a similar event and photo every year in different locations. He is considering Ascot Park for a bigger and better 2013 Homecoming.
Members of the 20,000-strong group are now fundraising to send Mr Makalio and his family to the Gold Coast for a September 29 Porirua reunion.
The Porirua Homecoming has also inspired reunions in Auckland, Sydney and Melbourne.