March 28, 2024
Māori Catholics on song for Hui Aranga
Māori Catholics are heading for Pettigrew Green Arena in Taradale for the annual Easter Hui Aranga.
Organising committee spokesperson Charles Ropitini says whānau will show their faith through kapa haka, kai, whakawhanaungatanga and te wairua tapu.
He says the faith has grown steadily in Heretaunga over the eight years since it last hosted the Hui Aranga, with more whānau returning to the Māori Catholic church.
“And when I say the Māori Catholic church, that is distinctly different to the mainstream with its own kaupapa and whakapapa as well. There’s a lot of friction in the world and people are wanting that solid grounding of spirituality and faith,” Mr Ropitini says.
A pōwhiri iwas held at noon, followed by the choir and sacred solo competition.
The festival including the daily morning karakia will be streamed from tomorrow on the event’s Facebook page.