Dannevirke Celebrates Matariki

Wednesday, 6 June 2012, 3:45 pm
Press Release: Ngati Kahungunu Iwi Inc

5 June 2012

Dannevirke Celebrates Matariki

It is a time for reflection and a time to set new goals for the coming 12 months, a theme Hayden Hape, Chairman of Kahungunu’s Taiwhenua o Tamaki Nui a Rua hopes more people will embrace as Dannevirke celebrates Matariki.

Hayden Hape is the event organiser and said the Matariki concert on Friday will be the finale of an exciting two week programme that has gripped the community.

The celebrations were launched on Friday 27 May for business and community leaders at St Joes Hall in Dannevirke.

Area schools have been attending presentations on Matariki in the Carter Observatory’s cosmo dome for the past fortnight throughout the region.

Hayden is delighted with the turnout, “It’s been a great success with over 500 students attending the shows and we’ve received great feedback. We wanted people to learn about Matariki and it’s significance, so we can embrace the celebration as a community, year after year. This is one of the greatest gifts our generation can leave for future generations.”

A free community concert will feature Brad Chambers, the winner of Homai Te Pakipaki karaoke show on Maori TV, Ria Hall, St Josephs Maori Girls College, Hato Paora College, Te Aute College Kapa Haka and Rezpect Dance Academy.

There’s also a dance contest for all ages. Contestants who learn Beyonce’s “Move Your Body” routine can win $50 phone top ups and street clothing vouchers. The routine can be found on you tube or www.rezpectdanceacademy.com

There are hot food stalls, hangi, prizes and arts and crafts.

The concert starts at 5pm on Friday 8th June at the Sports Centre, Anderson Street, Dannevirke.

ENDS

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