Kauri Point Maori land wars event sparks a deeper interest

Katikati's Shaan Kingi hopes Homai te Ra would become an important event for all members of the Western Bay of Plenty community. Photo/File

Organisers of Tauranga Moana's inaugural commemoration of Katikati's Kauri Point Maori land wars hope the annual event will continue to help connect all Western Bay of Plenty residents.

The first official commemoration of Katikati's Kauri Point Maori land wars was held on Saturday, with attendees wanting to educate themselves to gain a stronger connection to the area.

One of the organisers, Shaan Kingi, said the Katikati event was part of the inaugural National Commemorations Day of New Zealand Land Wars, Homai te Ra.

He said about 95 people attended the event at the Katikati Town Hall and everyone was interested to find out more about the Kauri Point Maori land wars and recognise the day.

"This one was the first held in Tauranga Moana," Mr Kingi said.

"Residents came to hear the stories so they can make a connection."

The day consisted of a powhiri, presentations, karakia and guest speakers before attendees moved to Kauri Point where they were invited to help spread positivity to the area by touching a pou, or carved post, honouring the Kauri Pa site.

He said it was a "surreal experience" for many of those who took part.

"It was beautiful. Even though it was raining, it all just fit together."

Mr Kingi said because this year's event was the first, he was looking forward to next year being bigger and better with planning already under way. He hoped it would become an important event for the Western Bay of Plenty community to honour.

"We'll continue to grow."

Mr Kingi said this year Tongan, Maori and European people all attended and he would love the next ones to include even wider groups of the community to learn about the area and the history.