The Circability Trust’s Bay of Plenty Hub is set to host Kanohi Kitea 2024, a regional social circus event, on October 22, 2024, from 10am to 2pm at Wairoa Marae in Bethlehem.

This vibrant gathering, designed to celebrate diversity and inclusivity, coincides with preparations for the annual World People with Disabilities Day event, Celebrate Together, scheduled for December 3.

Rowan Ford Dawson, regional manager of Circability Trust’s BOP Hub, expressed excitement about the event.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing together people of all abilities, ages, and cultures for a day of workshops, kōrero, and shared experiences,” he said.

“Kanohi Kitea 2024 aims to create a safe and welcoming space for everyone to participate and learn new skills, all while honouring Tikanga Māori.”

Circability in Kaitaia in 2022. Photo: Supplied.

The day’s festivities will kick off with an opening karakia and welcome ceremony, incorporating traditional Māori practices.

Attendees can look forward to a variety of engaging workshops running from 10am to 12.30pm, featuring circus skills like juggling, balancing, and acrobatics, alongside traditional Māori games such as ki-o-rahi and pōhatu.

These activities are designed to foster physical engagement and cultural appreciation among participants.

KBG Jump. Photo: Supplied.

Following the workshops, from 12.30pm to 2pm, guests will gather for a communal meal – shared kai and kōrero – to discuss their experiences and provide feedback, reinforcing the community’s values of manaakitanga (hospitality) and connection.

The event will conclude with a closing karakia, honouring the day’s activities and participants.

With an expected attendance of between 50 to 150 people, Kanohi Kitea 2024 invites individuals of all ages – ranging from 0 to 99 – to join in the celebration.

Dawson emphasized that registration is not required, encouraging anyone interested to attend.

“Our goal is to showcase the talents of individuals from various backgrounds and create a fun, creative, and culturally enriching environment,” he said.

For those looking to participate, more information can be found on Circability’s website: www.circability.org.

Circability in Kaitaia in 2022. Photo: Supplied.

Upcoming Youth Circus Festival 2024 in Auckland

In addition to Kanohi Kitea, Circability is excited to announce the 2024 Youth Circus Festival, scheduled for November 1 and 2 at the Victory Convention Centre in Auckland.

This festival will offer inclusive workshops for youth to explore circus skills alongside renowned instructors from organizations like FlipnFly and Dust Palace.

Participants can register online for the free festival at www.circability.org/ycf2024 and are encouraged to join this celebration of youth creativity and talent in the heart of Auckland.