![](https://shama.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/340553539_173165115596368_763442735070826432_n-1024x683.jpg)
On Monday 10th of April, a group of representatives from ethnic communities had the privilege of attending a Poukai at Te-Papa-O-Rotu Marae as guests of Kingii Tuheitia. This was possible thanks to the support of Te Haa o Te Whenua (THAWK) and Hamilton City Council’s Ethnic Communities Advisor Jovi Abellanosa, as part of the #welcomingcommunities programme.
The Poukai is an annual series of visits by the Māori king to Kīngitanga marae around and beyond the Waikato region, a tradition that dates back to the late 19th century.