Haka Tū Haka Ora introduces a new kapa haka competition for primary schools in the Central Otago area. The aim is to grow kapa haka in the Whakatipu Basin by introducing a competition that is easily accessible to local kura in Central Otago.
Since 2018, Central Lakes Polyfest, hosted in Tāhuna, has become an annual highlight showcasing Māori and Pasifika culture in our community. Polyfest is well supported by kura across Central Otago, and has seen a growing number of kura interested in participating at a competitive level. Whilst a few schools travel to compete in Dunedin or Invercargill, there is a growing need to provide a local competition that is easily accessible, promotes whakawhanaungatanga with kapa haka roopu and supports the cultural aspirations of whānau and iwi within the community.
Haka Tū Haka Ora looks to build on this kaupapa by introducing a new kapa haka competition for all primary schools in the area with aspirations to expand in the future.
Haka Tū Haka Ora highlights the important contribution waiata, haka and Māori performance provides for community identity, culture and overall wellbeing.
The concept acknowledges and gives action to the responsibility we all have to uphold our traditions and taonga for future generations.
The catch phrase is: Maranga mai tamariki mā, which simply translates Rise Up Tamariki.
This kaupapa is further reflected in our logo:
Koru/Fern Frond – represents new growth, sustainability and future growth of kapa haka in the area.
Each koru represents the primary schools in the Basin with the overall frond representing all schools in Central Otago and the growing seed of kapa haka.
Backbone - behind the koru which symbolises strength.
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Haka Tū Haka Ora Committee:
All committee members involved in this kaupapa are volunteers, teachers, whānau:Kaiwhakahaere and School Liaison – Stacey AndersonPutea/Funding – Roni Bouchier (Venue, Lighting and Sound)Mana Whenua Comms – Darren Rewi and Steph MacDonaldLogistics on the day – Tere Carroll, Steph MacDonald and Stacey AndersonCompetition Sections, Judging Criteria and Trophies – Tere Carroll and Candace CarrollAdvertising – Candace Carroll
From Left: Candace Carroll, Stacey Anderson, Roni Bouchier, Tere Carroll, Steph MacDonald
It is important to understand the whakapapa and intent of this kaupapa is to sit alongside and continue to support existing cultural events such as Polyfest, Ngā Putangitangi, Te Hautoka Otago etc.