Orongomai Marae Open Day and Waitangi Celebration

Orongomai Marae invites the community to help them celebrate Waitangi Day. The day boasts continual entertainment from traditional, contemporary and multi-cultural performers. A wide range of craft and food stalls adds to the many experiences on offer.

This year’s event theme is “Nga Korero a o tatou matua tipuna” or “stories of our parents and grandparents”. Tours of the marae will tell the stories behind the history of the buildings, taonga and marae whanau.

An undeniable highlight of the event is the moving and visually stunning opening powhiri. For everyone – newcomers, Pakeha, and Maori alike - this is a magnificent opportunity to experience this unique traditional welcoming ceremony. The powhiri begins with the karanga, the keening voices of women calling to each other from both the visiting group and the hosts. It is followed by a wero or challenge performed by a warrior. This is followed by a chant and dance of welcome and exchange of greetings. This is an experience not to be missed.
Another highlight will be a traditional hangi which is buried and dug up in the field behind the marae. Tickets for the hangi are sold prior to the event because they sell out fast!

For more information about the event or to book a hangi meal, phone 527 8944 or email colene.orongomai@xtra.co.nz.

If you are new to New Zealand and would like to attend the event with other migrants, please contact Settlement Support on phone 527 2132 or email settlement@uhcc.govt.nz.