Thames’ Goldfields mall was packed with people for Te Pūtake o Toi ki Hauraki 2025.
The event, which ran from 10am-1pm on September 19, saw kapa haka rōpū [groups] performing for the gathered crowd.
Several schools took part, including Matai Whetu Kohanga Reo, Paeroa Central Kura, Te Wharekura o Manaia, Te Puru School, Te Kura o Te Kauaeranga Thames South School, and Thames High School.
The Ladies Giddha from the Thames Indian Community and the seniors group Te Uru Kahika Kaumātua Rōpū also took part.
Event organiser Michael Barlow said he was thrilled with the turnout.
“It was truly amazing,” he said.
“[The event] is to celebrate our diverse cultures in Hauraki. So not just our Māori culture. We had our Indian whānau up here as well.
“Last year we had our Indian whānau, we had our Tongan whānau, we had our Thai whānau as well.
“They couldn’t make it this time around, but we’re still just leaving it open for whatever culture wants to jump in and share their kaupapa.”
