Mahi Poi wānanga with Savanah-Kui Tukariri

Join us for a two-part Mahi Poi wānanga, where we explore the art of poi, a beautiful Māori practice rooted in rhythm, flow, and storytelling with Savanah Tukariri (Kāi Tahu, Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Mutunga).

Savanah is a multi-passionate Māori creative with over 30 years of experience in kapa haka, which forms the foundation of her artistic practice. She leads Mahi Poi and Māori Movement classes at MOVE Studios (located at Parakiore Recreation Centre) and runs workshops across Ōtautahi. Her practice is grounded in te ao Māori, storytelling through the body, and creating spaces for cultural connection and expression.

The first session is a hands-on poi making wānanga where Savanah and her kaiāwhina will guide you through every step of creating your own set of poi to take home.

The second session gently blends technique, creative exploration, and simple choreography in a poi movement wānanga. This session is energising and fun for all bodies and experience levels. Bring your own poi, or there is a limited number of practice poi you can borrow.

Free to attend. Registrations are essential.

Tamariki 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent/caregiver.

Both sessions are available to book individually, or you can register for both parts.

Image by Kat Stefona.

Ihirangaranga: Creation & Connection

This event forms part of Ihirangaranga: Creation & Connection, a multi-week programme presented by Te Whare Tapere from 13 August – 5 September, celebrating Te Marama Puoro o Aotearoa | Māori Music Month.

Guided by the whakaaro of ihirangaranga, the programme explores sound as a source of connection — carrying memory, wellbeing, and culture across generations. Through music, movement, film, and shared creative experiences, Ihirangaranga invites people to come together, listen, learn, and explore the many ways sound connects us to one another, our communities, and our stories.

Ngā mihi nui to the Farina Thompson Charitable Trust, proudly managed by Perpetual Guardian, for their generous support in making Ihirangaranga: creation & connection possible.