In the New Year, Waiohau Marae in Whakatāne will start construction on their new dining hall. The new hall will pay tribute to the 28th Māori Battalion and the efforts to raise the funds are proving to be a source of iwi pride.
Ngāti Haka Patuheuheu put 100% into everything they do, even in competition.
"This is an important event for us and our fundraising style is custom made to suit this community,” says Hinerangi Hare, event organiser.
Amongst the competitors was a young woman’s hunting group called ‘Born to Provide Unemployed’ who hold some firm beliefs.
"We just want to prove a point that girls can hunt too. We’re not those ones that stay home keeping the couch warm" said a few select members of the group.
Having woman in the competition was no surprise for Toby Salmon, who has over 47 years’ of hunting experience. He confesses ‘Our woman are pretty staunch around here.’
Top prize for average boar weight went to Ray Kohiti and heaviest stag was won by Roy Mitchell.