A feast of Maori and Pacific Islander culture was celebrated at Dandenong Market on Sunday 9 February.
The Waitangi Day event drew 34,349 visitors, who were treated to hakas, singing, bands and Kiwi foods in what the market’s general manager Jennifer Hibbs described as a “wonderful celebration of culture and ceremony”.
The day’s entertainment kicked off with a traditional Maori welcoming ceremony, Powhiri.
It was followed by haka moves by the group Nga Uri Whaioranga as well as band Soul Purpose and Australian Idol contestant Lavina Williams.
In the culinary section, NZ Street Food offered traditional hangi – a hearty offering of chicken, lamb, potato, pumpkin, sweet potato, cabbage, stuffing and fried bread.
Polynesian foods, long cream donuts and BBQ meats were offered from other stalls.
