Celebrating Multicultural Day in style, the Upper Hutt Multicultural

 Council took it to Maidstone Intermediate to host a wonderful

 Huarahi Hou in Schools Festival! This wonderful day was commemorated with students from all backgrounds coming together to celebrate the vibrant cultures that make up our diverse community, with some even in cultural dress!

From colourful performances from 'Sam the drummer man' to showcase a taste of African culture or the Lion Dancers to show us the ways of the Malay-Chinese communities, to interactive speeches and kōrero, the festival offered a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in different traditions, languages, and customs. The air was filled with the sounds of traditional music, and the scent of delicious food from around the world wafted through the school grounds. Students got to experience first-hand the beauty of multiculturalism, learning through storytelling and dance.

One of the highlights was the cultural showcase, where students proudly shared their heritage through song, dance, and art, giving everyone a chance to appreciate the richness of various cultures. 

The Huarahi Hou Multicultural Festival is a reminder of the importance of embracing diversity, fostering understanding, and celebrating the uniqueness of every individual. It was a day filled with joy, learning, and connection — an event that truly captured the spirit of Upper Hutt's multicultural community!

It is a pleasure to partner with such an amazing school to enhance community well-being, with Principal of Maidstone Intermediate, Wikus Swanepoel, also saying... 

We look forward to our next multicultural journey with Maidstone Intermediate, and any schools, to continue advancing the kaupapa of Huarahi Hou for a more inclusive and beautiful Aotearoa. 

Check out the pics below from the day!  

Mokopuna getting the opportunity to experience a Chinese-Malay Lion Dance!