Dance And Culture Lights Up Lower Hutt For Matariki
Lower Hutt will come alive from over the long weekend with movement, music and mana as three major dance events ignite community spirit.
From the fierce rhythms of kapa haka to the sharp moves of street dance and a colourful celebration of cultural identity, Lower Hutt is set to host an exciting programme of performance events that will bring thousands together.
Lower Hutt Mayor Campbell Barry says he's excited to see events be hosted in the Hutt, and the thousands of people that will enjoy them.
"It's great to see the Hutt will be buzzing this Matariki. These events bring people together and bring more people into our city, which is good news for local shops and hospitality. I'm proud we can help make them happen."
The festivities begin on Matariki holiday, Friday 20 June, with the Haka Extravaganza at the Dowse Square. It showcases the unique power and artistry of kapa haka. There will be a hautapu ceremony at 6am which includes a free hangi breakfast. Performances start at 10am and entry is free.
Spokesperson Ginny Maxwell says Haka Extravaganza is more than performance.
"It's about providing an opportunity to come together and enjoy Kapa Haka but to also provide a space for all those who enjoy performing to do so."
There are 12 performances through the day, involving about 350 performers.
"We encourage people to pack a picnic lunch and spend the time together and enjoy the day."
On 20-21 June, Hip Hop Unite storms the stage at the Lower Hutt Events Centre. This national dance event brings together top hip hop crews from across Aotearoa
Hip Hop Unite Event Director Gemma Laing says this year will see a record 1500 dancers in 120 teams and duos from all parts of the motu.
"We have heaps of mega crews - big crews with up to 25 dancers onstage. It'll add to the unmissable, choreographed magic."
Dancers will also have an eye on qualifying for the Hip Hop Unite World Championships in the Czech Republic. Qualification isn't automatic. Instead, dancers are assessed by a judging panel to ensure they have a necessary level of competitiveness.
Unfortunately tickets for Hip Hop Unite in Lower Hutt have sold out, reflecting the event's unmistakable popularity
The much-loved Hutt Fest at Walter Nash Stadium runs from 24-27 June. It will feature more than 3000 student performers, watched by more than 14,000 spectators, in what is a vibrant celebration of Pasifika culture, identity and youth empowerment through song and dance.
The tagline for the event is: Our Identity, Our Stage, Our Future. The event nurtures a strong sense of belonging, reinforces the value of ancestral knowledge, and empowers our young people to carry their traditions with confidence into the future.
The ECE Concert is free entry, general admission for primary and intermediate Shows $8, general admission for college shows $10. Additional fee applies. Tickets available through my tickets.
There are plenty of other events happening in Lower Hutt for Matariki and beyond. You can view a selection here
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