The annual 'Ngā Pū Kōrero o Āpōpō' speech competition is getting its own slot. The national competition final which has been traditionally held during the annual national conference of the Māori Women's Welfare League (MWWL) will now be held a day ahead.
Ngā Pū Kōrero ō Āpōpō has been a main fixture in the national MWWL National Conference until now.
MWWL Tāmaki Makaurau member Hineamaru Ropitini says, “There have been long days for our elders and families in the past. Now we have come under the banner of Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. The Auckland region is very grateful they have opened their doors.”
The league has 3000 members and these young speakers hope that the league will continue to be the platform for their opinions and concerns.
Te Wharekura o Te Rau Aroha student Kapurangi Wilson says, “This is really good! Awesome.”
Te Kura o Matapihi student Wikitoria Ririnui says, “This is my first year at this event. It was really nerve racking to stand at this event here in Māngere.”
After 40 years, the league says competition will continue to be a fixture by leading the proceedings.
“We are here to fight for Ngā Pū Kōrero. It's similar to Ngā Manu Kōrero contest that is another event similar to our event,” says Ropitini.
The official start of the national conference for MWWL begins tomorrow with a welcome to Ōrākei Marae, Auckland.