The Hui Aranga has been going since 1946. It is a special time for Māori Katorika to come together over Easter to celebrate in kapa haka, kai, whakawhanaungatanga, and te Wairua Tapu o te Hahi Katorika.
Fr Chris Martin SM was involved in organising this year’s Hui Aranga, and reflects on his experience below.
The Annual Māori Catholic Hui was held this year at Petigrew Green Arena in Taradale. It was hosted by the Waipatu Catholic Club from Hastings.
This year is the 75th Jubilee of the Waipatu Club and it is 78 years since the Hui Aranga was first held at Pukekaraka, Otaki in 1946.
It is a wonderful testament of the identity, dreams and aspirations for Māori in the Church.
The Hui, as always included the celebration of the Easter Triduum. Bishop John was welcomed and presided over the Passion Liturgy on Good Friday. Fr Jack Smith was the main Celebrant at the Mass on Easter Sunday.
There was a full schedule of activities including Kapa Haka (Action Song, Poi and Haka) together with Oratory, Choir and solo. There is always a Religious Quiz.
Competitions are in three sections: Midget, Junior and Senior. Saturdays always include a variety of sports competitions
This year’s attendance was down on previous years. There had been a two year gap due to the Covid Pandemic. Last year the Hui was held at Te Puna near Tauranga.
Health and safety regulations limit where Club groups attending can stay. Previously they were accomodated at a College facility. The clubs stayed at different local Marae.
Next year the Hui will be hosted in the Wellington Area.
Click here to listen to an interview with Charles Ropitini, the Hui Aranga ki Kahungunu 2024 Spokesman, on Waatea News.