More than 55 rōpū from kōhanga reo, early childhood centres, primary schools and kura kaupapa Māori performed at the 25th anniversary of the Turanganui schools’ Māori cultural festival held in Gisborne from 16 to19 November.

“It was a marvellous opportunity and occasion for all our young people to learn waiata and perform in a non-competitive environment,” says festival organiser Rick Paenga. An estimated 5,000 people attended the festival including proud parents and whānau. Te Puni Kōkiri supported the festival financially and Te Puni Kōkiri employee Victor Walker was on hand for MC duties with Taina Ngarimu.