Ākina 2026: TŪHONO - Stronger together, through Haka

About

Ākina 2026: TŪHONO

Ever wanted to see haka live? This is your chance.

Join Ngā Mātai Pūrua (NMP), a Māori performing arts group from Melbourne’s west, for our biggest day of the year. Over 100 performers, from toddlers to grandparents, take the stage for a full day of haka, waiata (song), poi and dance. It’s loud, it’s powerful, and you’ll feel it in your chest.

This year’s theme is TŪHONO, which means connection. It’s all about bringing people together across generations, cultures and communities, whether you’re Māori, Kiwi, Aussie or just curious. Over a thousand people came through the doors last year, and everyone’s welcome.

What’s on

• Live kapa haka (Māori performing arts) from all four NMP age groups, from our under 5s right through to our adults
• Guest performances from First Nations, Māori and Pacific Island groups
• Kiwi and Pacific food trucks, so come hungry
• A Christmas market with handmade gifts, art, clothing and pounamu (New Zealand greenstone)
• Community and support services for families heading into the new year

Key times

• 9:00am: Doors open, market and food trucks open
• 10:00am: Smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country
• 10:30am: Performances begin
• 3:30pm: Event close

Full performance times will be shared closer to the day.

Bring the kids

It’s a family day, alcohol free and easy to drop in and out of. Kids love it, especially seeing other kids up on stage giving it everything.

Good to know

• The stadium café is open on site
• Bring a card, as some stalls may not take cash