It is two decades since the Motueka kapa haka festival began, but its kaupapa remains the same now as it was then: bringing people together to celebrate Māori performing arts in a fun and non-competitive way.
Ten primary schools gathered at Sport Park last Friday, with Upper Moutere, Māpua, Tasman, Mahana, Ngātimoti, Tasman Bay Christian, Riwaka, Saint Peter Chanel, Parklands and Tapawera Area Schools all performing haka and waiata, supported by students from Motueka High School.
The event began in the early 2000s, founded by Whaea Sue Pryde, and was originally held every two years. Nich Campbell, the Across Schools teacher for the Kāhui Ako, says the event’s purpose is to create a space for all to enjoy kapa haka, regardless of experience.
He credits Kōkā Tania Corbett and Matua Maihi Barber, who have both held the Resource Teacher Māori role, for “keeping kapa haka alive in Motueka” through their deep knowledge and their support of students and teachers alike.
This year’s highlights included Year 9 and 10 students from Motueka High School, with Kaiah Wijohn and Shai Marshall volunteering as MCs.
Nich says the event’s strength lies in its inclusivity.
“It doesn’t matter how far along your kapa haka journey you are – we have a space and a stage for you and all groups are treated equally,” Nich says.
A special addition this year was the Pakarana Pasifika group and the high school’s Hawaiian dance group, adding even more cultural diversity to the day.
The event was originally held in the high school hall, but it soon outgrew that venue.
“Not sure what we will do if Sports Park gets too small,” Nich says.
He is grateful to the Tasman District Council and Kelly Aitken from Huia Rugby Club for their support in getting the event to this point.
Looking ahead, Nich says the goal is to keep growing, despite challenges such as the removal of Kāhui Ako funding and the Resource Teacher for Māori role.
“We’re in such a good place that there is a desire and determination to keep this festival going.”
Despite the obstacles, Nich says there are so many positives to take from the event.
“[It] was a brilliant day for the community and was everything I love about teaching and living in Motueka.”
