Record high participation in Kapa Haka comes to GLOBOX Arena & Events Centre, Claudelands

A massive gathering of young Tainui performers will take place at the GLOBOX Arena and Events Centre, Claudelands for the biennial Tainui Waka Primary Schools Kapa Haka Festival 2024. The event will see two days of intense competition as a record-breaking 21 kapa haka teams battle it out on 8-9 November. 

The unprecedented surge in participants reflects the growing popularity of kapa haka across the nation. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, kapa haka has emerged as a vital tool for promoting physical, mental, and emotional well-being, strengthening the connection between students, their whānau and their education.

The allure of kapa haka isn't limited to live audiences. The digital landscape has witnessed a significant increase in viewership, with the Tainui kapa haka event in April amassing over 14 million views on Te Whare Haka o Tainui Instagram platform in a mere two months. International attention has been attributed to the success of the content. To continue this trend, Tainui Live, in partnership with other local iwi radio of the Tainui region, will livestream this year's event.

The live experience, though, is truly unparalleled. The event will showcase extraordinary talent, including young talent with unworldly mature voices and remarkable technical finesse in athletic traditional implements. Audiences can expect to feel a rollercoaster of emotions, from heartfelt tears to entertaining laughter and ferocious awe within a 25-minute kapa haka performance.

In addition to the stunning performances, the festival boasts a lively marketplace. Street food, particularly Māori cuisine and its modern twists, is a major drawcard. Thirty vendors will offer a diverse range of art, taonga, food, clothing, and more, creating a bustling atmosphere alongside a livestream viewing area.

This event continues its longstanding partnership with Te Ngakau-aa-Kiwa Trust, which leads the Hauora Hub. Nine organisations will be on-site to offer a range of services, including health screenings, healthy homes advice, and immunisation information. In addition to its educational focus, the hub provides facilitated entertainment for tamariki, such as moko painting, basketball, as well as other physically and mentally challenging competitions. 

The top six teams will be rewarded with a coveted spot at Te Mana Kuratahi, the national primary school kapa haka competition, set to take place in the Mātaatua region in 2025. With all participants eager to showcase their talents, the event promises to be a dazzling display of cultural excellence.

Festival Director Toti West explains, “Kapa haka has always been a powerful tool for cultural revitalisation. Since its inception during the time of Princess Te Puea Herangi, its purpose has been to connect young people to their language, identity, and culture. Events like this demonstrate the enduring legacy of those aspirations from over a century ago”.  

West champions the art form as a catalyst for wellbeing and excellence. He says, “kapa haka is gaining momentum as a cornerstone of holistic wellbeing, and the intense competition continues to elevate standards and inspire the pursuit of cultural excellence. Kapa haka is a breeding ground for future great orators, leaders, singers, and practitioners of traditional knowledge”.

The Tainui Waka Kapa Haka Festival 2024 offers a captivating showcase of cultural pride, power, and vibrant storytelling. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the pinnacle of Tainui Kapa Haka!

Key Event Information:

• Venue: GLOBOX Arena & Events Centre, Claudelands.
• Dates: Friday, 8 November: 2:00pm – 7:20pm | Saturday, 9
• November: 8:30am – 5:30pm.
• Entry: Koha (donation).
• Parking: Free Public Parking via Gate.
• Broadcast: Iwi radio social media platforms.

Important notes:

• No photos or videos.
• Only individually packed homemade food allowed into the venue. No commercial food allowed.
• Smoke free, vape free, alcohol and drug free event.