Iwi Unite for Exciting Competitions at Taranaki Tū Mai Festival

The Taranaki Tū Mai festival is set to showcase a vibrant display of culture and competition this weekend, bringing together over 5,000 uri from the eight iwi of Taranaki in Ōpunakē. This biennial event, hosted by Taranaki Iwi, marks its ninth edition and will feature approximately 30 events across various venues.

According to Wharehoka Wano, chairperson of the Taranaki Tū Mai Trust, the festival celebrates unity through three core principles: kotahitanga (unity), whanaungatanga (connection), and Taranakitanga, which honors the identity of the descendants of Taranaki Maunga. Wano emphasized that while the event promotes togetherness, it also ignites a passionate spirit of competition among the iwi.

“Of course we’re passionate; we enjoy and love competition,” Wano stated. He noted that whether in sports like netball, league, or basketball, the intensity of rivalry is palpable. Participants don their iwi shirts with a sense of responsibility to represent their tribe. After the contests, however, the atmosphere shifts back to camaraderie as they hongi (a traditional greeting) and embrace.

The festival includes an array of cultural activities, such as wānanga (workshops), a hīkoi to Te Namu Pā, maara kūmara (gardening), kapa haka, and tautohehohe (debating). Sporting events range from bowls, darts, and pool to rugby league nines, netball, touch, volleyball, and softball. This year, two new events—euchre and surfing—have been added to the lineup, with Wano particularly excited about the inclusion of surfing, noting the strength of the local Māori surfing community.

Hosting the festival is a significant undertaking, as highlighted by Damon Ritai, Chief Executive of Te Kāhui o Taranaki. He mentioned that their iwi alone prepared 993 bags for whānau (family), indicating the large turnout expected. Accommodation in Ōpunakē and nearby marae has reached capacity, catering to the anticipated influx of attendees.

Beyond the sports and cultural activities, the festival will feature a popular tamariki (children’s) zone and around 14 food trucks serving a variety of cuisines. Ritai mentioned that traditional island-style foods, including raw fish and hangi, will be available. For instance, his iwi is preparing to cater for 3,000 participants on Sunday alone.

Ritai expressed enthusiasm for the festival as an opportunity to reconnect with family and friends. “It’s about bringing us all together in one place, enjoying great weather, and participating in sporting events and discussions,” he said.

Wano, who also has whakapapa (genealogy) ties to Taranaki iwi, is focused on reclaiming the Taranaki Tū Mai title from the previous host, Ngāti Tama. “They are coming back to retain their trophy, and as hosts, we have a responsibility to challenge for it,” he remarked.

The Taranaki Tū Mai festival promises not only fierce competition but also a celebration of culture and community, making it a highlight on the Taranaki calendar this March.