Wed 7 Oct 2009 In: New Zealand Daily News View at Wayback View at NDHA
The organisers of last weekend's Takataapui Hui say the event was a great success, and a valuable opportunity to honour leaders and pioneers who have contributed to our communities. Takataapui Hui: Over 150 people attended several diverse events Over 150 people attended the entire three-day Hui in an Auckland Marae which aimed to celebrate and inform Takataapui people. Events included a collection of seminars, a formal dinner and a fashion parade and a party. "Our Takataapui Awards Night celebrated those closest to us," Hui organiser Jordon Harris tells GayNZ.com. "Among those who took out some of our Awards were drag queens Miss Ribena and Tess Tickle, Cartier Trustee Karen Richie and South Auckland trans community worker Mama Tere." A popular 'Ask the Aunties' session saw attendees ask a variety of questions to a panel of prominent Transgender Aunties. The Hui also discussed the community's involvement at Wellington's upcoming Out Games 2011, and Mika spoke about next year's Aroha Festival. "Later we learnt how to make traditional medicines, and had safe sex campaign poster boy Kevin Hartley speak in an 'HIV in relation to me' session." Other highlights included the Maumahara section where attendees brought photographs of Takataapui loved one who have passed on, adds Harris. "We also had the AIDS Memorial Quilts and we shared stories of those past from those who knew them." Harris says the three days were a great chance to spend time catching up, making friends and celebrating our community's uniqueness. "Overall, everyone commented on what a wonderful time they had and we look forward to the next Hui in Wellington next year."
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News Staff
First published: Wednesday, 7th October 2009 - 3:09pm