Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga
“Mā te kotahitanga e whai kaha ai tātou”
“In unity we have strength”
The rain didn't keep us away for our Kotahitanga Twilight Gala on Friday 28th of March. Kaimahi, whānau in our communities, tamariki to kaumātua and marae o Heretaunga came together under kotahitanga despite the wet weather! Our value of kotahitanga was not only the theme for the twilight gala, but it was showcased throughout the entire event.
In the past, Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga have hosted many galas with the main theme of whānau being able to enjoy a family, fun, free event! Whānau Ora led the last Twilight Gala, which was in 2016, which was a successful event. Ten years later, Whānau Ora initiated this year’s Twilight Gala to bring our whānau in the communities together! The organising committee allocated all stalls to local Māori pākihi and our Heretaunga Marae.
Walking through the gates, whānau were hit with the savoury scent of fried bread, seafood chowders and good old steak and egg sandwiches waffled through the crowds. While sweet steam puddings and Dubai chocolate covered strawberries were a hit for those who attended. Most stalls sold out within the first two hours of our gala opening, which is an awesome achievement for our Marae o Heretaunga and their fundraising kaupapa.
Our kaumātua tent was buzzing with bliss as each taonga sat, enjoyed kai, manaakitanga and whanaungatanga! The tamariki space was filled with laughter and kid’s ready to win a prize, there was something to do for all whānau and all ages! The entertainment section was pumping, starting with the melodic tunes of Hukarere Girl’s College, Mahina Lawrence, Reggie Butler and our own Andrew Kingi. Our dynamic duo, Sam and Raiha kept the vibes high while handing out each major prize! Tamariki was excited to perform their own waiata to Tipene Harmer too.
Thank you all for showing up in the rain! Thank you to our Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga kaimahi for doing what we do best, creating the magic for whānau! Despite the rain, it didn’t stop us from having a great afternoon. A huge mihi to all our sponsors, we had over 186 prizes that were donated from local businesses to support our kaupapa and to give to whānau!
"Mauri Ora ki te Mana Māori"
“Thank you so much for having me! Despite the weather, it was a beautiful turnout. Amazing whānau!”
Mahina Lawrence
