"This unprecedented level of interest highlights the incredible talent and dedication within our Kapa Haka community”, says Tā Herewini Parata, Chairman of Te Matatini Society Incorporated National Board.

To ensure a fair and equitable programme for judging the competing Kapa Haka teams, Te Matatini National Board, in collaboration with Te Kāhui Maunga Society Incorporated, has made the decision to extend the festival by one day. The festival will now span five days and will start with the pōwhiri on Monday 24th February 2025. The qualifying rounds will take place on Tuesday 25th, Wednesday 26th, Thursday 27th and Friday 28th February and the finals on Saturday 1st March. The number of teams qualifying for the finals will remain at 12 teams.

Te Kāhui Maunga Society Chairperson Elijah Pue says manaakitanga is of utmost importance to the Host Committee.

"Adding an extra day to Te Matatini festival honours our commitment to manaaki the motu, ensuring that we extend the warmest hospitality and create lasting connections with all our whanaunga from right across Aotearoa. We are thrilled to welcome everyone to Te Matatini for an additional day, allowing us to share even more of our vibrant culture and celebrate together with all our manuhiri," says Mr Pue.

We are committed to providing every possible support to the Kapa Haka teams as they adjust to the new schedule. Our priority is to maintain the integrity of the competition and ensure that every team has the opportunity to showcase their skills in a fair and balanced environment.

We look forward to an extraordinary celebration of Kapa Haka excellence and invite everyone to join us in New Plymouth for what promises to be a historic Te Matatini festival.

End

Media contact Lyn Harrison 027 245 2477