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A celebration of Aranui
The biggest day in Aranui’s history is how organisers are
describing the Aranui Family Festival, Affirm, to be held in
Wainoni Park on 7 December. Big name sports stars such as Crusaders flanker Johnny Leo’o
and former Melbourne Storm rugby league player Tawera Nikau
are among the day’s drawcards. Also featured are entertainers
King Kapisi, Aranui High School Band A-Flex, the band FUSA and
local performers and cultural groups. Motivation for the Festival has come from the Aranui
community as part of the Aranui Community Renewal Project –
a partnership between the Christchurch City Council, Housing
NZ and the local community. Its main aim is to “open the doors
of opportunity” by providing information about careers,
education, and health-related services in a fun family atmosphere,
according to Aranui Community Coordinator Rachael Fonotia. “We want Affirm to show that Aranui is a good place to live
and promote it to the wider Christchurch community. It’s a
celebration of our people and our culture in Aranui,” she says. Site vacancies at Wainoni Park are filling fast with invited
community groups. A large number of health organisations have
registered to present information about healthy living and lifestyle
choices as well as offering plenty of giveaways. There will also be
several stalls dedicated to Aranui-based services for youth and
families. Food from Aranui’s many local cultures and entertainment for
children will be part of the carnival-like atmosphere. There will be
free entry to activities including pony rides, juggling workshops and
a giant slide for children. A celebrity touch match — mixing top
sports stars with local community talent — is expected to be one
of the day’s highlights. Community sponsors, Christchurch City Council and Housing
New Zealand are supporting the event financially as part of their
commitment to the project. While organisers are delighted with the
level of community support and sponsorship, more is needed. |