Toi Aotearoa board members and Creative New Zealand staff were amongst the tens of thousands of people who witnessed the remarkable Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga Festival in Ngāmotu last week. It was a joyous, powerful, and uplifting experience that represents ongoing work by so many.

We acknowledge Te Matatini Chair Sir Herewini Parata and board, alongside Chief Executive Carl Ross and his kaimahi for their service leadership to Māori through the Te Matatini movement.

With majestic Taranaki maunga as the backdrop, hosts Te Kāhui Maunga representing the three waka - Tokomaru, Kurahaupo and Aotea – enveloped manuhiri with incredible manaakitanga and grace throughout the weeklong Festival. 

Arts Council of New Zealand Toi Aotearoa Chair Kent Gardner was at Te Matatini and said “What I see today is excellence and people and communities working together.” 

https://creativenz.govt.nz/news-and-blog/2025/03/04/21/13/57/te-matatini-o-te-kahui-maunga