Beehive media release.

Kua tū te haka a Tāne Rore me ngā mahi a Hine Rēhia!

The world’s greatest kapa haka event will generate a significant boost for businesses in Taranaki, Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka say.

Minister Potaka attended Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025 opening pōhiri at Yarrow Stadium in Ngāmotu - New Plymouth on 24 February. From Tuesday 25 February to Saturday 1 March, 55 groups will perform on stage in the Bowl of Brooklands at Pukekura Park to a large in-person audience and an expected 2.5 million viewers on TV or online.

“It was a beautiful pōwhiri to welcome this great event to the rōhe under the gaze of Te Kāhui Tupua - Taranaki Maunga,” Mr Potaka says.

“We’re here witnessing the Olympics of kapa haka. Tens of thousands are expected here this week and will bring tens of millions into the local economy. This means a boost for a range of businesses including accommodation providers and restaurants.

“The significance of kapa haka to Te Ao Māori is something we value deeply, especially since the rise of the waiata-ā-ringa form with Tā Apirana Ngata. It also gives us the great gift of protecting and revitalising our reo. 

“After much hard preparation and practice, bringing an event of this scale together requires a significant effort from many people from many backgrounds coming together for the benefit of all.”

Read the full media release on the Beehive website.

Te Matatini boosts Taranaki business (Beehive.govt.nz)