Teams vie for national spot

Around 2000 people have filled the ASB Baypark today for the The Whakataetae Kapahaka o Mataatua.

The regional kapa haka competition is one of the biggest events in the North Island.


Putiputi Tahere from Te Whanau-a-Apanui (Te Kaha) practicing in the car park. Photo: Chris Callinan.

Performers from Tauranga Moana, Te Whakatohea, Te Whanau a Apanui, Ngai Tuhoe, Ngati Awa and Ngai Tai came together are performing in the competition.

The groups are competing for the right to represent Mataatua Waka at the Te Matatini National Competition.

Event organiser Jack Thatcher says there are about 20 teams competing for the chance to move onto the national competition.


Rawinia Gray manning one of the many stalls in the main hall.


Pikikoroko Paki (left) and her sister Marewa play in the main hall.

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