Tamaki Herenga Waka Festival

Overview

It's lucky that for the days when the sun is beating and hand fans 'a fanning that there are events happening around Auckland that quench the monotony of such a day. Tamaki Herenga Waka Festival is one of those events and a great way to cool down by the waterfront and emerge oneself in Maori culture.

Auckland's Anniversary long weekend will see Māori history, heritage and contemporary culture celebrated among New Zealanders and foreigners alike. All are invited to take part in the multitude of events. Māori games, workshops and talks, healing and ta moko, and storytelling are all put on to encourage the teaching, sharing and recognition of the land beneath our feet and the people who first trod the paths of our Aotearoa.

The Cloud, on Auckland's Queens Wharf is the perfect location to wander and participate at one's leisure. The inter-tribal waka races will be the primary attraction followed closely by contemporary performances by Māori artists and a show of both traditional and modern kapa haka. The chance to reminisce on your primary school memories of a hangi may be granted at the village marketplace where individuals will get the chance to dabble in some delicious kai from Māori chefs and pursue the vast variety of authentic arts and crafts.

Staying true to the Maori culture, among the family activities there will also be a much appreciated 'Koro Lounge', where all the older whanau can relax and enjoy the chaos with a cup of tea, good conversation or an afternoon snooze.