Porirua is gearing up for another exciting Waitangi Day celebration at Te Rauparaha Park on Thursday, 6 February, from midday to 5 pm.
The event will feature live music from homegrown talents PERE and Kings, along with performances by Swiss, Roland Williams from The Voice Australia, Ella Monnery, Hoseah Partsch, and Leisure Tomlins. Cultural performances will include Mana Whenua me te Kāhui Kuratea and the visiting Canadian Indigenous group, the Kumugwe Cultural Society.
Inside Te Rauparaha Arena and Pātaka Art + Museum, visitors can enjoy free activities for tamariki, as well as explore art and history exhibits. The event will also feature a variety of stalls, along with food trucks along Norrie Street offering a range of kai options.
The popular free waka tours are returning, allowing people to paddle around Te-Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour, thanks to Toa Waka Ama.
“Last year we welcomed more than 30,000 people into our city centre for Waitangi Day, with many coming from outside of Porirua,” says Porirua Mayor Anita Baker. “The range of musicians, performers, activities, stalls, and kai on offer means there will be something for everyone.”
Last year, the event won Best Arts, Culture or Heritage Event at the NZEA Event Awards.
This year’s event follows a zero-waste kaupapa, so attendees are encouraged to bring their own reusable cups for drinks and food. The event is also smoke and vape-free.
People are encouraged to walk, scoot, or bike to the event, as city parking will be limited due to road closures. Free public holiday parking is available, and visitors are advised to take the train to Porirua city and walk five minutes to Te Rauparaha Park. Limited mobility parking will be available at Te Rauparaha Arena.
More information can be found at poriruacity.govt.nz/waitangi-day.
