SunLive Competition

Historically, Maketu is of great significance – it has been the landing place of the Arawa canoe, a major population centre, a trading port and, at times, a battle-zone, but on February 26, the tiny seaside settlement will showcase the Maketu Rotary Kaimoana Festival.

Now in its fourth year, the festival is a celebration of people, place and culture.

Festival coordinator Julie Crossley says tickets are selling fast and the confirmation of Tina Cross and Taisha Tari, of Wicked Wahine, leading the entertainment line up has raised the profile of the festival and is attracting an even wider audience than previous years.

Other entertainment includes popular local band Left-hand Break, Peri Kohu, Azwiar, Urban Dance Crew, Te Puke pipe band, and the Tauranga Samba drumming group who will keep the crowd entertained between acts.

Seafood served will be in both traditional and contemporary styles with vendors vying to serve up the most fabulous varieties of mussel, whitebait, paua, prawns, scallops, crabs, crayfish and oysters served natural, or as sushi, kebabs, pizza’s and chowders. These will be complemented by fine wines and beers which can also be purchased.

All proceeds will support local volunteer groups and organisations.

The Maketu Rotary Kaimoana Festival is 12-6pm at the Maketu Sports Ground.

Tickets cost $25 for adults, $10 for 17 and under, and free for children under five. Tickets are available from Ticket Direct or Paper Plus Te Puke, Tauranga, Rotorua, Whakatane, Opotiki.

Win: Go in the draw to win one of three double passes with SunLive. Entrants must be aged 18 years or over. To enter, you must be logged in, if you are new click here to register for free!

Competition Results

Wayne Jessop
Mount Maunganui

Janine Nikora
Pyes Pa

Jacqui Missen
Greerton