Naera Ohia does a portrait of brothers Akina and Kaiora Dickson. Photo / supplied
Thousands of people are rocking “positive vibes” today at Māori in the Moana.
Hosted by Ngāi Te Rangi, the free event at Whareroa Reserve was designed to unite the community on Waitangi Day.
Whānau enjoyed live music, kai and a range of free workshops, activities, entertainment and family portraits.
The HBU mobile health clinic is also onsite with a GP and nurses.
Ngāi Te Rangi deputy chief executive Roimata Ah Sam said, “I am feeling hopeful.
“That is because we have been working really hard to create spaces where Ngāi Te Rangi uri [descendants] feel proud to demonstrate how we are as a people. “
She said the next generation was embracing matauranga Māori and Māoritanga.
“So I look across the field today and there are multiple generations here. We’ve got kaumātua, mātua and mokopuna. They’re making poi, they’re receiving moko kanohi and they’re embracing all of these beautiful elements of our culture.
“The Toitū Tiriti workshop is full of people bursting to find out about Te Tiriti o Waitangi and there is a huge line of people waiting to get haircuts.”
Ah Sam said the day was turning out to be bigger than last year’s inaugural event, which was heartening.
“It’s been really beautiful to see everyone who has shown up and watching our people connect.”
Maggie Currie said the event was “fantastic”.
“I just love it and it’s a big reconnect for me since I returned from Western Australia. I lost my te reo Māori but I’m trying to get it back … along with my Māoritanga.
“I’ll never be ashamed of it again.”
For Masina Hellier, it was time to catch up with whānau and enjoy the “positive vibes”.
“I love being Māori and the best thing is everything is in one big place and there is lots of room. All the workshops they are doing are also awesome.”
Tauranga celebrates Waitangi Day with diverse cultures, music, and performances.