Food, fun and famous song help Patea celebrate

CROWD PLEASER: Taiaroa Neho was an exuberant host. 060215WCBRCPAT10

Patea people got their chance for a moment's fame yesterday when their reaction to the Poi E song was put on film.

There were hundreds, as usual, at the annual Paepae in the Park celebrations of Waitangi Day. The town's Patea Maori Club performed at noon, finishing up with the 1984 hit song that made them famous.

People were asked to crowd forward and do the "Poi E stomp" during it.

Stalls sold a huge range of food from boil-up to sushi, and cupcakes to hangi. Children gobbled candy floss and played with inflatable toys.

Photo/Bevan Conley

The bands kept coming, and announcer Taiaroa Neho filled in any gaps between them with notices and other performers - such as a girl doing a Cook Island hula and the Star Dance Academy performing.

The band with top billing was Soulovus, from Waitara. Also playing were L40, an eight-piece Wanganui reggae/rhythm and blues band with strong links to Ratana Pa.

The crowd was relaxed as it chatted, ate and took in the entertainment on a day of mixed cloud and sun.

Photo/Bevan Conley