The world’s largest and most prestigious Māori performing arts festival, Te Matatini 2023 will take control of Mt Eden Stadium (Ngā Ana Wai) over the next few days.
Reigning champions, Ngā Tūmanako
For the first time since 2019, 45 kapa haka from 13 regions across Aotearoa and Ahitereiria will compete for the national title currently held by reigning champion hailing from Tāmaki Makaurau, Ngā Tūmanako.
The official pōhiri hosted by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei was held today and welcomed all competing kapa to Te Matatini 2023. The tāonga gifted to the overall and section winners in 2019 were returned and blessed.
You can view the livestream of the pōwhiri here.
Tens of thousands are expected to attend the event with Muriwhenua from Te Tai Tokerau kicking off performances tomorrow morning at 8:15 am.
The full Te Matatini schedule is located here
Fifteen Kapa will be selected over the course of the festival to compete in the finals this Saturday.
Among the many participating and celebrating will be members of our Unitec, MIT and Te Pūkenga whānau who joined forces and worked together to create a unified, presence at the festival.
Our volunteers will be sporting new co-branded merchandise with a variety of giveaways and resources for the crowds.
Manawanui manawaroa manawaora whanau.