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National | Hawke's Bay

Rangatahi drive Aotearoa Mōrehu festival

Hawke's Bay rangatahi have played their role in organising the Aotearoa Morehu Multicultural Festival. A festival that will attract more than 5000 religious leaders, cultural groups and whānau.

Youth leader Marie Scott says, “The weekend is like a hāhi based whānau day and it's important to me because most of our rangatahi are at home sitting on the couch wasting time on social media so it's a good day for them to come out with their whānau and enjoy the day.”

Youth leader Delaynie Henderson say, “It's a really important day for us all because tomorrow is when everything kicks off. It's an event for all Māori, for all mōrehu and all cultures.”

It's the first time Hawke's Bay has ever hosted the festival, as it aims to bring together various denominations to celebrate diversity.

Youth leader Hori Reti says, “There will be leaders from all different religions arriving here, like the pou tikanga from the Ringatū, Anglican and Catholic churches. You name it they'll be here.”

The youth have organised activities and have played an active behind the scenes role to ensure a flawless weekend.

“I think it's important for New Zealanders and as Māori we need to be proud of who we are and express ourselves and make connections and get out there,” says Scott.

“Whether you are Māori or Pākehā, we will all unite under the banner of unity as well all move forward for positive change shoulder-to-shoulder,” says Reti.

The official opening will kick off at 9am tomorrow morning at the Napier Soundshell along Marine Parade.