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Celebrating kapa haka across the motu

Since 2017, IDEA Services’ Māori advisory group, Te Anga Pāua, has celebrated the talent, passion and cultural pride of people with intellectual disabilities through kapa haka. Each year, performers from across Aotearoa come together to share waiata, haka and whakawhanaungatanga, showcasing the confidence, commitment and joy that kapa haka inspires.

In 2026, we will celebrate kapa haka in communities across Aotearoa between September and November. A local approach allows more people to take part closer to home while creating opportunities to strengthen connections with local iwi, hapū, whānau and communities.

This year's theme is Growth, inspired by the whakataukī:

Mā te huruhuru ka rere te manu
Adorned with feathers, the bird will fly.

This whakataukī highlights the importance of preparation, support and opportunity. Just as a bird needs feathers to fly, people flourish when they are empowered to learn, grow and reach their potential.

Across Aotearoa, local events will celebrate the achievements of performers and the important role kapa haka plays in building confidence, connection and belonging. While each event will look a little different, they all share a common goal: creating opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to shine.

Keen to get involved?

Events are open to rōpū from IDEA Services, other disability providers, schools and community-based kapa haka groups. These celebrations are designed to be truly community-focused and we welcome people with intellectual disabilities from across Aotearoa to participate.

If you'd like to be involved, perform, or find out what is happening in your area, contact us at kapahaka@idea.org.nz

Stay updated

Some events will be open to the public, while others will be invitation-only due to the venue capacity and local arrangements.

Public event dates, locations and attendance information will be added below as they are confirmed.  

Check on the IDEA Services website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram

Upcoming public events

Nau mai, haere mai. Everybody welcome.

‍Te Hoenga Waka Northern Regional Kapa Haka

Date: Wednesday 30 September 2026
Time: 9am–4pm (performances start at 10am)
Location: Orewa Events Centre, Orewa College, 76 – 80 Riverside Road, Orewa
See location on map

Te Wakatini Mid Central Regional Kapa Haka

Date: Thursday 26 November 2026
Location: Gateway Church, Hamilton, 490 Grey Street, Hamilton East
See location on map

More information

You can contact us at kapahaka@idea.org.nz

You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest kapa haka news, stories and updates.