Waitangi Day blossomed under the warm sun, a day perfect for celebrating cultural diversity, as noted by He Iwi Kotahi trustee and historian Buddy Mikaere. In Tauranga’s evolving landscape, Mikaere emphasized the importance of embracing newcomers and fostering inclusivity: “We make sure those people are welcome.” With music and dance, the festival aimed to connect people, uplift spirits, and share the history of Waitangi Day, now in its sixth year at the Historic Village.
The vibrant celebrations featured a Chilean group performing traditional Rapanui dances, while local African drummers encouraged attendees to discover the rhythms of their heritage. Among the crowd, Tu Watson shared his delight at witnessing such unity: “You see many international people, and that is cool.” His mother, Gail Borrell, echoed this sentiment, remarking on the beauty of the shared experience in the community.
Attendee Richard Goodall reflected on the positive aspects of the treaty, believing that it has fostered a beneficial relationship between the crown and the Iwi. However, he expressed concern regarding contemporary discussions about equality: “When your prison numbers and your health numbers are the way they are, you cannot define equality. As soon as you try to define something, it will be out of date.”
Adding to the festival’s tapestry, Vanessa Zhu from the Tauranga Chinese Culture and Art Centre highlighted her newfound understanding of Waitangi Day’s significance. The Tauranga Chinese Cultural Arts Group’s Tai Chi fan dance and calligraphy workshops showcased their culture, illustrating the event’s theme of celebrating Maori traditions alongside diverse backgrounds. Feasting on flavors of unity, the attendees embodied the spirit of acceptance and harmony that defines Waitangi Day.
Waitangi Day was joyfully celebrated in Tauranga, emphasizing cultural diversity and inclusivity, as noted by Buddy Mikaere. The event featured traditional performances, including Chilean dances and African drumming. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the festival, highlighting the importance of unity and shared experiences. Discussions on the treaty focused on community relationships and the need for ongoing dialogue about equality.
The Waitangi Day celebrations in Tauranga showcased the beauty of cultural diversity, highlighting the importance of inclusivity as expressed by community leaders. With music, dance, and shared stories, the event reinforced connections between different ethnic groups while emphasizing the relevance of Waitangi Day in today’s society. It served as a reminder that unity and understanding are essential for fostering a harmonious community.
Original Source: www.sunlive.co.nz
