Maori line up for Auckland Arts Festival

Photo: Auckland Arts Festival.

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The Auckland Arts Festival Te Ahurei Toi o Tamaki is increasing its Māori content as it returns in March with a completely homegrown programme.

Its kaihautu Māori, Ataahua Papa, says a te reo Māori language plan will be woven into every aspect of the festival.

The opening ceremony on March 4 will include vocal performances by Pere Wihongi and Maaka Pohatu and the festival closes 17 days later with Pumanawa, a celebration of kapa haka by four groups including 2019 Te Matatini winners Ngā Tumanako.

There will also be Wahine Toikupu, the poetry of Maya Angelou translated into te reo and performed by Te Panekiretanga graduates;

Hine at the Civic Club, featuring Māori and Pasifika wahine including Betty-Anne Monga, Amy Boroevich, Disciple Pati, Jhasmyne and Emily Muli;

and Taku Tau Kahurangi, a celebration of classic kiwi songs by Ria Hall and friends.

Ataahua Papa says with Christmas approaching, tickets would fit snuggly under the tree.

"We're coming up to Christmas and we're encouraging people to buy experiences and give tickets to shows," she says. Te Ahurei Toi o Tamaki runs from 4-21 March in 2021.

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