Porirua is set for a busy Waitangi weekend, with free whānau-focused celebrations on Waitangi Day followed by a pre-season Super Rugby clash at Jerry Collins Stadium.
Waitangi Day on Friday, February 6, will run from noon to 5pm across Te Rauparaha Park, Te Rauparaha Arena and Pātaka Art + Museum, with activities also taking place on Te Awarua o Porirua Harbour.
The annual celebration includes live music, cultural performances, food trucks and family activities. Reggae group Sons of Zion will headline the main stage, alongside performances from Benjamin Makisi, Aotea College kapa haka, Lisa Tomlins and Te Kura Māori o Porirua.
Inside the arena and Pātaka, visitors can take part in free children’s activities and explore exhibitions highlighting art, history and local stories. On the water, waka tours hosted by Toa Waka Ama will offer people a chance to experience the harbour.
Food vendors will operate under a zero-waste kaupapa, with people encouraged to bring reusable cups and containers. The event will be alcohol-free, smoke- and vape-free, and dogs will not be permitted.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker said the city’s Waitangi Day celebrations continue to draw large crowds from across the region.
“Many visitors come from outside Porirua, which is wonderful,” Baker said. “The range of what’s going on is outstanding and I love seeing all the families out enjoying what’s on offer. It’s what the day is about.”
Attention will then turn to Porirua Park on Saturday, February 7, when the Hurricanes play the Chiefs in their final pre-season match. Kick-off is scheduled for 1pm, with gates opening at 11.45am.
The Hurricanes will also hold an open training session at Jerry Collins Stadium on Thursday, February 5, followed by a captain’s run on Waitangi Day.
Midfielder and Porirua local Riley Higgins said playing in his home city was something he looked forward to.
“It’s special to play in a community like Porirua and we know the fans will be there in full force,” Higgins said. “We can’t wait to see everyone there and mix and mingle after the game.”
Match tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $5 for children, plus a processing fee, and will be available online and at the gate.
Free shuttle buses will operate on match day from Kai Tahi in the city centre and from the Porirua train station carpark. Council is encouraging people attending Waitangi Day events, Kai Tahi or the rugby to walk, cycle or use public transport where possible, with parking expected to be limited due to road closures.