Kapa Haka stands strong in Maori language week

The Tū Māia Kapa Haka Festival on the Hibiscus Coast was started by Whaea Mere Witika and the late Matua Murray Witika in 2009. 

It was created as an opportunity for local schools to perform for their community, where they could stand strong, give back and honour through waiata, haka, mau rākau, poi and more.

The first festival hosted three schools – fast forward to September 8, 2023, and 13 schools took part, hosted by Whangaparāoa College. They included Whangaparāoa and Ōrewa Colleges, Silverdale School, Gulf Harbour School, Ōrewa Beach Primary, Wainui School, Whangaparāoa School, Dairy Flat School, Red Beach School, Stanmore Bay School and Ōrewa Primary.

The new school in Milldale, Ahutoetoe School, which opened seven months ago, took part for the first time.

Covid-19 restrictions meant that the festival hadn’t been held since 2019.

Amy-Lee Gould of the Tu Maia Kapa Haka committee says whānau, friends and the wider community that attended were moved by the performances. 

“It was a joyful and moving experience. Each school came with an engaging and polished performance. The day showcased Te Ao Māori with so much aroha and respect,” she says.