PĀNUI
NEWS
Matariki Whānau Day 2025
( Ka mahuta a Matariki i te pae, ka mahuta ō tātou tūmanako ki te tau)
28 / 06 / 2025
On Saturday, our community came together to celebrate Matariki at our second Whānau Day of 2025. It was a truly special occasion. The day was beautifully opened by our incredible MC, Vania, followed by a historic moment - the first-ever public performance by the Hōhepa Waiata group. It was tino pai rawa atu!
We also had fantastic performances from Te Kura Kōhine o Ōtakaro and our very own Te whānau whānui o He Waka Tapu group, both of which truly appreciated by everyone.
Throughout the day, there was a wide variety of activities for whānau and tamariki to enjoy. There were plenty of spot prizes, and an abundance of kai to keep everyone well-fed. Special thanks go to our hāngī crew, “HWT Hāngī Masters Inc.”, and to everyone who helped prepare, lay down, and serve 300 hāngī to close out the event. A big mihi also to Junior, who tirelessly cooked hundreds of sausages and patties, served with aroha by Kaytrina and the kitchen crew, alongside cakes and fry bread. We doubt anyone left hungry!
ME MAHI TAHI TĀTOU MO. TE ORANGA O TE WHĀNAU.?
We are grateful to all those who helped in the lead-up to and on the day itself. Your contributions made this a truly memorable day for our community. Each of you played a part in its success, and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
A special mihi goes to our Mara Kai team—Stacy, Kiri, and Lyn—as well as volunteers Caleb and Amanda, who supported the moko kauae station. Your dedication and support mean a lot.
We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to our event partners: The Heart Foundation, Hāpai, Whai Rawa, Ngāi Tahu Whakapapa Unit, ECAN, MPI, CCC Libraries, Whakapakari Ora Wāhine Wellness, and Tūhono Tāonga Tūhono Tāngata. Without your support, these events wouldn't be possible.
Help us improve & Win!
Today, a survey will be sent out to everyone who attended the event. Those who complete it will go into the draw to win one of five winter warmer gift baskets.
Finally, as we reflect on Matariki rising above the horizon, we are reminded that our aspirations for the year ahead also grow strong.
Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou katoa.
