Aotearoa’s spirit will be on full display this summer at Waitangi Festival with Kiwi Culture Jam.
On 7 February, locals are invited to enjoy an evening at Kedron-Wavell that celebrates the heritage of New Zealand and the South Pacific, with a focus on community, culture, and rhythm. The event, which is family-friendly, will showcase a variety of performances that highlight the traditions of Māori and Pacific Island cultures.
One of the main attractions will be Mista Big Stuff, a six-piece Kiwi band featuring guitarist Kane Arama Hunt and singer Kalvin Vaega. Known for their mix of soul, reggae, R&B, and classic Kiwi hits, the band promises to deliver an energetic performance.
Kane encouraged everyone to dance and sing the night away with the Mista Big Stuff band.
“This performance promises a fantastic night filled with captivating music that will beautifully complement the spirit of the Kiwi Culture Jam,” Kane said.
Cultural Performances and Event Details
Attendees will also enjoy a cultural showcase by the Heilani Polynesian Dance Company. The group, known for teaching young people island drumming, fire dancing and cultural dances, and their performances at multicultural festivals, will present a range of traditional dances, including Hula, Tahitian, Samoan, and Māori action songs.
Artistic Directors Heimana and Leilani Tahiati said they loved teaching generation after generation, “from the toddlers to young adults, it is so fulfilling and we are so grateful to carry on the culture of Polynesia.”
Another highlight of the event will be Ngā Mānia Onewhero, a 20-piece whānau-based kapa haka group. Founded by Koka Charley Koteka, the group has grown from a small family gathering into a community-focused ensemble, showcasing kapa haka to inspire Māori youth in Australia to embrace their cultural identity. The performance will feature all ages, demonstrating how kapa haka brings people together to celebrate heritage.
Charley said they were looking forward to performing at the Kiwi Culture Jam at Kedron-Wavell with “the youth and young at heart to commemorate Waitangi”.
“It is a day of reflection on New Zealand’s history and an exciting event to showcase our culture,” she said.
Waitangi Day, observed on 6 February, is a key date in New Zealand’s history, commemorating the first signing of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi) in 1840.
Tickets start at $40. Get your tickets now.
Waitangi Festival – Kiwi Culture Jam
- Saturday, 7 February, 7pm-10pm (doors 6pm)
- Kedron-Wavell (Blue Pacific Showroom)
- 21 Kittyhawk Drive, Chermside.
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