Over 60 kapa haka groups from around Aotearoa will gather in Tauranga to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Te Mana Kuratahi, the National Primary Schools Kapa Haka competition.
Running from Monday to Friday, the event will feature performances from 62 rōpū, making it one of the largest ever.
The event began in 2000 with just over 20 teams. Since then, it has become a major celebration of Māori identity and culture. One of the most well-known groups, Te Kapa Puāwai from Auckland, has performed at every festival and won the national title a record four times.
Te Ora Pahewa, leader of Te Kapa Puāwai, reflected on how far the competition has come. He once performed in the very first event as a student and now returns as a guide for the next generation. “The stage is bigger now, but the pride and purpose are the same,” he said.
Sandra Waitai, a tutor from Kaitaia, also spoke about the lasting impact of Te Mana Kuratahi. Her children once performed in it, and now her grandson is taking part. “This is where our haka journey began,” she said, adding that the event has helped build strong leaders and performers across the country.
The first group to perform will be from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Mana Tamariki in Rangitāne. Their principal, Kaimoni Soutar, said his students feel proud to represent their whānau and ancestors. “They’re focused and ready,” he said.
Around Tauranga, the city is full of welcome signs, flags, and excitement. Local organisers have even made a guidebook for visitors and offered discounts to performers at local attractions like swimming pools. “It’s all about manaakitanga – showing care and hospitality,” said organiser Aurere Thatcher.
