Kaituhi Māori’s third hui following Orongomai and Motueka is scheduled for Gisborne October 9-12. Witi Ihimaera will be the convenor of this full three-day hui which will be held coincident with the Tairāwhiti Arts Festival.

“The main programme will take place at Poho-o-Rāwiri marae,” says Ihimaera, “but visits are expected to take place to Waituhi, one other marae yet to be confirmed, and workshops in writing whakapapa, writing in te reo, fiction, poetry and film will be held at various city venues. We hope to run a parallel programme for rangatahi writers.” The hui will be co-organised by the TaiTech Writers Hub run by Ihimaera’s sister Polly Crawford. “People will have to register for the hui,” he says, “as places will be limited. The fact that the hui will be held at the same time as the arts festival means that participants will be in Gisborne City at a very festive time. We are planning a night of readings and recital at Poho-o-Rawiri and a banquet kai.”

A programme will be available in April or May when registrations will also open. “Having regional hui in both islands is going to be one of the signature activities of Kaituhi Māori going forward,” says Ihimaera. “We think this is the best way for us to grow the pūtea of our writers of the future. Following Gisborne, we plan to have our hui in Nelson the following year, 2026.”

Programme and registration/accommodation can be viewed HERE.

Our registration portal is now open for your registration. Please note that for accommodation, catering, transport and conference seating purposes we are offering places at the hui for 50 guests maximum. Your registration will guarantee your place. Click the link to register. Upon successful completion of your registration, you will be issued with a receipt. At the hui, your name tag will secure your admission to all sessions and meals (other than the Saturday evening fundraising dinner).

THREE TYPES OF REGISTRATION

There are three types of registration:

Hui Registration: $70.00 Total includes 3 breakfasts, 2 dinners (excluding fundraiser dinner), 3 lunches, coffee and tea

Hui plus Marae Accommodation: $130.00 Total inclusive of your Hui Registration plus 3 nights of accommodation at the marae (sheets provided, byo towels and bedding)

Student (Under 20) Hui Registration only: $50.00.

As noted, places are limited so please register early to avoid disappointment.