Miss Ribena They won't be closing the Auckland Harbour Bridge for it, but there is a hikoi coming to town that is bound to make a splash. The Hikoi on Heels will pound the streets of Whangarei, Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch from July 24. The event's MC Miss Ribena will bus to each city accompanied by an entourage of drag queens, in an effort to raise money for the 2010 Hui Takatāpui, which will focus on the health and well-being of Māori and youth. Ribena will MC the evenings, which are expected to be drag queen extravaganzas, featuring drag shows and prizes. Hikoi on Heels kicks off in Whangarei's Danger Danger on 24 July, and then marches down to Auckland's Family Bar on 31 July, Hamilton's Shine Bar on the 7 August, Christchurch's Cruz Bar on 14 August and Wellington's Club Ivy on 21 August. NZAF Programme Manager Community Engagement Jordon Harris says the hikoi is a fun way of generating some funds for the hui. "It's only $5 or koha and every cent will go towards ensuring this year's hui supports as many takatāpui and rangatahi as possible. The hikoi will be a good night out and I'd like to thank Miss Ribena for her support." Hui Takatāpui aims to increase Māori support for HIV prevention, as well as provide leadership and advice on issues for takatāpui. It also provides an opportunity for takatāpui to network, have fun, play sport, and be entertained in a safe and supportive social environment. Registrations for the 2010 Hui Takatāpui opened on 1 July 2010. Information packs and Hikoi on Heels details are available here
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Saturday, 17th July 2010 - 4:48pm