Kāepepē Rīhepa’s Hineraumati Festival Celebrates Community Spirit in Kaeponga

The annual Hineraumati Festival, held in Kaeponga, New Zealand, is a celebration of community spirit and resilience. Organized by the local fire brigade, the festival has been a staple of the region for decades. This year’s event was attended by over 2,000 people, showcasing the dedication and camaraderie that define this tight-knit community.

**Fire Brigade’s Bungee Challenge**

For the fifth consecutive year, the Kaeponga Fire Brigade hosted a bungee challenge, where local youth could test their bravery and compete for prizes. Nine-year-old Jaimee Stewart from Matauri Bay was one of the participants, demonstrating remarkable courage in the face of uncertainty.

“It was really fun,” Jaimee said after her experience. “I’ve never done anything like it before, but I’m glad I tried.” The event aims to promote teamwork and trust among young people, while also providing a unique opportunity for them to develop their problem-solving skills.

**Community Engagement**

The festival featured a range of activities designed to engage the community, from traditional Maori performances to modern music covers. The band Kōhia, with Harry Muunu on bass, kept the crowd entertained throughout the day. This year’s event also saw the introduction of new initiatives aimed at promoting environmental awareness and sustainability.

**Mayor’s Visit**

Far North Mayor Moko Tepania made a special appearance at the festival, introducing her nephew and niece to Santa Claus and Hineraumati (aka Charlotte Morunga). “It’s wonderful to see this community coming together,” she said. “The festival is an excellent example of how people can put aside differences and celebrate their shared values.”

**Firefighting Demonstration**

The Kaeponga Fire Brigade also showcased their firefighting capabilities, with a demonstration of equipment and techniques used in emergency situations. The team emphasized the importance of fire prevention and education, highlighting the critical role that community members play in reducing the risk of fires.

**Conclusion**

Hineraumati Festival is more than just an event – it’s a testament to the resilience and dedication of this close-knit community. Through its various activities, the festival promotes unity, teamwork, and environmental awareness, ensuring that future generations inherit a vibrant and thriving community. As Kaeponga Fire Brigade commander, Hone Ngata, put it, “This festival is at the heart of who we are as a community. It’s about coming together to support each other and make our community an even better place.”

This year’s event was made possible by the efforts of numerous volunteers and sponsors, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure its success. As one participant noted, “The festival is a reminder that there’s strength in numbers and that when we work together, we can achieve great things.”