Puanga Rising in Majestic SquareWith a new Matariki public holiday observed across the country this year, Whanganui will celebrate its own form of the Maori New Year, Puanga, with a free community event in Majestic Square on the evening of Friday 24 June.
Puanga Rising will run from 5.30–8.30pm with a mix of live music, art displays, cultural performances, and kai from a range of food stalls. The event is being organised by Mainstreet Whanganui and Whanganui District Council, with support from the Whanganui Regional Māori Tourism Organisation and the Town Centre Regeneration project. Mainstreet Whanganui General Manager, Des Warahi, says it will be fantastic to have a whanau-focused event in the heart of our city to celebrate our region’s rich Māori heritage and shine a spotlight on our talented local artists. |