Grey hair, big pukus, but elders cut a dash

Dawson Harrison (front), Chief Nepe (back), and Reina Walsh of Iritekura marae give it their all. Picture / Amos Chapple

Pa wars erupted on the North Island's East Coast yesterday, but the only shooting was at basketball hoops.

Thousands of Ngati Porou tribal members gathered in Ruatoria for the annual marae sports competition, with events including touch rugby, horse racing, chess, bowls and tug-of-war.

Ngati Porou chairman Api Mahuika said he was overwhelmed by the huge turnout, one of the biggest in the contest's 12-year history.

The event, held each January 3, was a chance for whanau members to return to their roots and catch up with new and not-so-new tribal members.

"Judging by the numbers, it is pleasing to see that Ngati Porou breeding is quite prolific."

Mr Mahuika said although events were competitive, the priority was on having a go.

Everyone from tamariki to kaumatua were encouraged to compete.

"It's about inter-generational participation, reuniting families who have been away and a chance to take stock of who we are, where we are, and to enjoy our Ngati Porou tanga."

Willie Mannering, of Ruatoria, spent the day refereeing children's touch rugby.

But the highlight of his day was marvelling at the speed of some elders competing in the over-50s 100m sprint.

"They may have grey hair and big pukus but, man, they can still run."

Lynnie Hainoana travelled from Rotorua to the event with her husband Michael and three children. They borrowed a horse to compete in some of the events, including the potato race, where jockeys race between cones while trying to spear potatoes.

Maori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia, a proud Ngati Porou member, competed in the trivial pursuit and walking events.

But he chose to referee the tug-of-war rather than anchor for his marae team.

He said the day's events were an example to all tribes. "It's a huge turnout of whanau. It is a great example of where Maori can go."