Ākina 2026: TŪHONO

Ever wanted to see haka live? This is your chance.

Join Ngā Mātai Pūrua (NMP), a Māori performing arts group from Melbourne’s west, for our biggest day of the year. Over 100 performers, from toddlers to grandparents, take the stage for a full day of haka, waiata (song), poi and dance. It’s loud, it’s powerful, and you’ll feel it in your chest.

This year’s theme is TŪHONO, which means connection. It’s all about bringing people together across generations, cultures and communities, whether you’re Māori, Kiwi, Aussie or just curious. Over a thousand people came through the doors last year, and everyone’s welcome.

What’s on

Live kapa haka (Māori performing arts) from all four NMP age groups, from our under 5s right through to our adults
Guest performances from First Nations, Māori and Pacific Island groups
Kiwi and Pacific food trucks, so come hungry
A Christmas market with handmade gifts, art, clothing and pounamu (New Zealand greenstone)
Community and support services for families heading into the new year

Key times

9:00am: Doors open, market and food trucks open
10:00am: Smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country
10:30am: Performances begin
3:30pm: Event close

Full performance times will be shared closer to the day.

Bring the kids

It’s a family day, alcohol free and easy to drop in and out of. Kids love it, especially seeing other kids up on stage giving it everything.

Good to know

The stadium café is open on site
Bring a card, as some stalls may not take cash
Photos and video will be taken on the day. Let our front of house team know if you’d prefer not to be photographed
Need accessible seating or other support? Tell us at checkout or email exec@nmp.org.au

Where and when

Saturday 19 December, 9:00am to 3:30pm
Eagle Stadium, 35 Ballan Rd, Werribee VIC 3030

Get involved

Want to hold a stall, perform or volunteer? Expressions of interest are open now: https://forms.gle/8r5TWjDNEz3fwMn77

Questions? Email exec@nmp.org.au or call 0423 970 525.

Grab your tickets, bring the family, and come see what all the noise is about.

Contact the host of Ākina 2026: TŪHONO - Stronger together, through Haka

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