MEDIA RELEASE
WEDNESDAY 27th SEPTEMBER, 2023
Te Matatini distributes over $1 million to support Te Mana Kuratahi Festival 2023
Carl Ross the Chief Executive of Te Matatini says, “Te Matatini made a commitment that
70% of the funding received in Budget 2023 will be allocated directly to the twelve Te
Matatini Rohe. Today I am announcing that Te Matatini has provided funding to support
rangatahi attend the Te Mana Kuratahi National Festival. This is a great start for promoting
and preserving our cultural heritage. Engaging and involving our rangatahi in cultural
activities like Kapa Haka not only ensures the continuity of our traditions but also helps to
instil a sense of cultural pride and identity among the younger generation”.
Te Mana Kuratahi is the biennial national primary schools Kapa Haka competition, hosted
this year by Te Tauihu o te Waka a Māui in Nelson.
“This festival, which runs from 30th October to 2nd November, is an important cultural
event, and having timely financial support for the participating teams is crucial for its
success”, says Mr Ross.
“A total of $1,125,000 in funding will be distributed to support Te Mana Kuratahi 2023. Our
vision of Mana Motuhake ki te Kainga means that the decisions about how best to support
the individual teams will rest with the Rohe. It also ensures that the support aligns with the
specific needs and priorities of each Rohe which can vary widely across Aotearoa,” says Mr
Ross.