The newly formed Hawaiian Social Club is extending an aloha to all Northlanders interested in learning just about anything the island nation offers, including its history, culture and food.
Professional hula dancer Taramati Chanel and her husband, Sidney Quintal, are behind moves to establish the club which had its first meeting in Whangarei last month and attracted 15 people from all walks of life. Interestingly, they are not aware of any fellow Hawaiians living in Northland.
The couple moved from Hawaii to Whangarei five years ago and tried to find a social club in the North Island to join but were unsuccessful.
Their efforts paid off after they began fielding inquiries about Hawaii culture and tradition through Ms Chanel teaching people hula dancing in Whangarei. She then suggested the formation of the Hawaiian Social Club.
"Our goal is to promote Hawaiian culture and that includes music, dance, food and story-telling in an informal social set-up because we feel the kinship and energy to be able to do so," Mr Quintal said.