Hikoi Report (#2) from Rotorua

Just came back from the Hikoi in Rotorua! Only one word TUMEKE!!!!!

Te Arawa came out in huge numbers!!! Joined by ope from the Far North, Ngati Whatua, Tainui, Tuhoe, Te Whanau Apanui

A few thousand started from Tamatekapua but by the time the Hikoi hit the city area the hikoi STREEEEETTCCCCHHHEDDDDD and STREEETTTTCCCHHEEDDD as Maori (and pakeha) along the way joined on..

The Hikoi was headed by the 2 Tamaki Brothers on their Chopper Bikes,, an OPE TAUA from Te Mataaarae i o Rehu kapahaka, followed by the many thousands of iwi supporting tha kaupapa.

All ended at a huge powhiri in Central Rotorua as the Hikoi arrived...a very moving occasion for Te Arawa!!

Annette Sykes was busy screaming her lungs away on the megaphone urging on the crowd (I think our sister should stick to talking - kaare he pai tona reo waiata - lol!!!)

A poignant moment was when the hikoi passed by Rotorua Primary School...the whole school lined up to mihi to the hikoi as it
passed ...all our little tamariki...screaming at the top of their lungs...the ihi and wana pouring from their eyes and bodies...it was
sort of like all our kids saying goodbye as the adults go and battle on their behalf!

What a moment...!!!!

The "crucible" is heating at each stage of the journey to Wellington to deal to the kupapa!

Kia Kaha!
Ka whawhai tonu matou!