Free community concert to Shine on Kaitaia

Far North's Got Talent 2017 finalists on stage at Te Ahu. Some will perform again on Saturday.

Shine on Kaitaia will be officially launched on Saturday with a free community concert at the Youth Space (formerly the Kaitaia Bowling Club) in Matthews' Avenue, 4pm to 6pm.

The line-up will include the Jackson Taylor Band, some of the Far North's Got Talent 2017 finalists and guest appearances by Far North artists. Food will be available for purchase, and families are encouraged to take a picnic.

The Shine on Kaitaia ropu originated from He Whanau Marama Trust, which has been involved in organising and fundraising for many events over the past year.

The group comprises parents, musicians, tutors and students, all volunteers, young and not so young, who were born, raised, lived or have lived in and love Kaitaia.

"Now we want to improve the delivery of these events for the community, and for our future — our kids," co-ordinator Micah Tawhara said.

"We've decided to put all our events under this one kaupapa, while still being able to collaborate or co-design events with other trusts and organisations." Shine on Kaitaia's mission was to build a solid foundation of positivity in the town to generate a source of light and increasing positive activity for all who wanted to be a part of it.

"Our mode for achieving this is by hosting community events, showcasing arts, dance, fashion, movies, concerts, neighbourhood tournaments, performing arts, encouraging innovative social kaupapa, and to shine this light outwards to reach all our Far North towns, communities and families," Ms Tawhara said.

The group was guided by the firm belief that every child was born with a talent and a purpose. The kaupapa was to encourage young people to realise their talents, and provide platforms for them to share with their community, and the world.

One primary aim was to encourage youth leadership, nurture youth talent and provide opportunities for talented Kaitaia and Far North youth.

Past events organised by Shine on Kaitaia volunteers included Far North Voice, Far North's Got Talent, Taitokerau DJ Battle, Movies in the Park, the Indigenous Youth Cultural Concert and 3 on 3 basketball competitions.

Future events would include the "new" Kaitaia Santa Parade, Christmas in the Park, "and a few more surprises along the way".

"We believe that music heals, and community events create joy, happiness, kotahitanga and unity," Ms Tawhara added.

"These ingredients provide sustenance for our community spirit, naturally creating a more positive and inspiring environment for our children to live, learn and grow in."

The Shine on Kaitaia crew were always on the lookout for volunteers to awhi with their events, and were seeking funding partners from runanga, organisations and trusts that provide similar services.

"Being a small community, we have the ability to work together better to increase positive outcomes for children and their families, so it only makes sense that we co-operate instead of competing for government or other types of funding," she said.

"We all want the same thing — to make Kaitaia and the Far North more appealing and a happier, safer place."

Anyone wanting to support the kaupapa in any way is welcome to send a message on the Shine on Kaitaia Facebook page.