The event, held at Westpac Stadium, is expected to draw in more than 60,000 people over the four days. “Given the ambitions of this University to be closely aligned with the capital city and to contribute to its cultural and economic life, we think the partnership is an excellent one,” says Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Māori), Professor Rawinia Higgins.
“This is a chance to see the very best kapa haka teams from around the country—it’s a major cultural event that we think Wellington people will embrace. It will be a great opportunity to manaaki thousands of performers and other visitors to our region.
The University’s marae Te Herenga Waka will host the kapa haka group, Hikurangi Pārihā based in Ruatōria.
Professor Higgins is encouraging staff and students to check out the festival. “It’s a spectacular, fun event and I hope many of you will take the opportunity to see the superb performances at some stage over the festival.”
Teams perform from Thursday to Saturday, with the finals held on Sunday. The official draw for the performances is on the festival website.
Held biennially, the festival has been named Te Matatini Ki te Ao (the many faces to the world) in 2019 to recognise its international status.
Te Matatini Chief Executive, Carl Ross, says, “We are excited with the strategic alliance that has been developed between Te Matatini and Victoria University of Wellington. We welcome the University to the increasing number of Te Matatini Strategic Partners who contribute to the success of our event.”