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Regional | Christmas

Descendants of Ngāti Whātua o Orakei celebrated

Bastion Point was buzzing with youthful laughter and smiles today as Ngāti Whātua o Ōrākei held their annual day of celebration for their descendants.

According to one of the organisers of today's events, Graham Tipene, preparations for today's event have been long, but well worth it.

“Preparations for today started last year.  Last year this event was held down the bottom, at Ōkahu. Today, it's here at the side of the marae. So the organising group started all of this last year, and it has been a long time to plan this.”

Tipene adds that today is essentially about ensuring and promoting a sense of pride within the children of Ngāti Whātua, so that they may lead them into the future.

“The hope is that the children know who their family is. Today is to bring together and unite all families of Ōrākei, and Ngāti Whātua which was one of the biggest hopes of the tribe.”