Fireworks for festival
Matariki celebrations in CHB will go off with a bang again this year.
A major fireworks display will provide the closing highlight of the Tamatea Matariki Wha¯ nau Festival at Te Aute College next Friday night, June 8.
The first in a series of Nga¯ ti Kahungunusponsored celebrations being held throughout the region to herald the beginning of Matariki, the Ma¯ ori New Year, the festival will also feature kapa haka and waiata performances, said event coordinator Zack Makoare.
He expected 400 people to brave the outdoors to join the celebrations.
“Despite the cold, many of our wha¯ nau will be excited by the fireworks and the entertainment provided. This is about building connected and confident families and sharing positive memories to lift the aspirations and attitudes of our people.”
Hosted by MC Crystal Edwards, Zack said the festival programme included performances by rangatahi and tamariki from Te Aute College, CHB College, Terrace Primary and many other schools before ending with the main highlight of the night, the fireworks display.
The event will start at 5pm and finish at 8pm. It will be supported by
Ma¯ ori Wardens with many stalls and vendors to provide food and hot drinks.
For a fourth year, the Takapau community will also be hosting a Matariki celebration the following day on Saturday, June 9 which will also culminate in a fireworks display.
■