Pa Wars event returns
The Pa Wars competition is reigniting in Kaikohe - 20 years after the first running of the event in Waima.
Organisers Lahni Sowter and Missy Wharerau say they have fond memories of past Pa Wars and wanted to bring the event back to the area.
The 2017 edition, held at Lindvart Park in Kaikohe, will feature more than 20 teams contesting netball and touch rugby in a tournament-style event.
Games will kick off from 9am each day on January 28 and 29.
Sowter says the organising group is a family affair and they have named themselves the Ahi Ka Collective.
The collective’s mission is to ‘‘keep the home fires burning,’’ Sowter says.
‘‘We are hoping to create a biannual event on the off year of the Ngapuhi festival.
‘‘It is an opportunity for the community to participate in the event that is for the people, by the people.’’
She says after attending two close together tangi for her grandparents, the group talked about the need for more opportunities to get together for positive reasons.
‘‘Sports are really positive - so we decided why not?
‘‘The Far North District Council came to the party after we put in a business case through their new events fund and we have had excellent support from the community to date.’’
She says the event is based on their memories of Pa Wars.
‘‘It will be interesting to see the people that come and participate, we want to celebrate the idea of a continued event.
‘‘It’s not about competition but participation. It’s a good reason for everyone to come home.’’
Wharerau says teams have entered from as far south as Auckland to ‘original’ teams that competed in the early runnings of the event, including Waima, Omanaia and Kaikohe.
‘‘It’s a great weekend of whanaungatanga. This is the revival of that kaupapa (of Pa Wars).’’
Sowter says whanaungatanga is about families coming together.
Stalls run by families and local businesses will also be in attendance as well as children’s entertainment.
Entry to Pa Wars is free. Stall sites are still available. For more information contact Lahni on 0211714091.