Whānau day set to be biggest yet
Timaru’s Te Aitarakihi Marae-a-Iwi/ Multicultural Centre’s annual Waitangi Whānau day event to commemorate Waitangi Day is expected to be bigger than ever this year.
Te Aitarakihi’s Kairuruku/project co-ordinator Anna Buckingham said they wanted to create an event where whānau could come and enjoy music and entertainment, have access to locally produced goods, enjoy kai (food) and learn about the ‘‘monumental event’’ in Aotearoa’s history and future.
Buckingham said the centre commemorates Waitangi Day annually, but usually on a smaller scale than what they have planned this year.
‘‘We will have hangi, free sausage sizzle, produce from our māra kai, lolly scramble for the kids, and you’re also welcome to pack a picnic and a rug and just enjoy the atmosphere,’’ Buckingham said.
‘‘A main feature will be education where we will have displays and resources available and a speaker who will talk to the history of Waitangi Day.’’
Buckingham said stalls will include community-based organisations and emergency services, Kapahaka and singing groups, kai stalls and arts and crafts.
A quiz will also be run during the event, with people having a chance to win spot prizes.
‘‘At Te Aitarakihi our wharenui name is Whakapiripiri Tu Hono a Iwi, being the place that brings all cultures together.
‘‘Teamed with our goal to reflect our values of Manaakitanga – caring for people, and places, and Whanaungatanga – building connections and resilience within whānau and wider community, we encourage all people who have never visited Te Aitarakihi to come down and experience these values in motion.’’
Buckingham said they are expecting a ‘‘great attendance’’ and plan to hold this event annually as well as events for Matariki, Te Wiki o te Reo Māori and a night market.
‘‘Te Aitarakihi is on an exciting journey, to complete our building extensions and honour the vision of the kaumātua who dreamed up and made Te Aitarakihi a reality over 30 years ago.
‘‘There are many benefits to the wider community as we grow and develop, and to create more space to educate and support is one of these.
‘‘The money raised from our donation bucket at the gate will be put towards our building project. Te Aitarakihi is unique because people of any culture can join as a member.’’
Buckingham acknowledged mana whenua Arowhenua and kaumātua, who they value and respect, for their ongoing support to Te Aitarakihi and the organisations endeavours.
The Waitangi Whānau day will run from 11am to 2pm on Monday, and Alliance Smithfield’s car parking area has been secured to ensure more parking space for the event.
Buckingham also encourages everyone to bring cash as Eftpos will be limited during the day.