Coronavirus: Whakatū is the coolest little town around

Friday, 1 May 2020

Whakatū gained national attention with the devastating closure of the local meat works in 1986. But the small Hawke's Bay town proves once again that in tough times, it’s all about community spirit.

Whakatū has embraced Covid-19 lockdown restrictions and created a movement to bring its residents closer together – and it certainly resonated with viewers of Māori TV show Te Ao with Moana.

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Reporter Kirsty Babington joined dozens of the 800 Whakatū residents who come together every morning for karakia and waiata, before moving around the corner for a spot of social distance dancing on the street.

Kori tinana organiser Tangiora Bartlett said she never imagined how popular the dancing would become and says whānau are enjoying the community spirit that has grown from the lockdown.

“Along Essex Cres we have lots of whānau that come out, and they’ve all come up with their own moves,” she says.

The idea has proven so popular that she’s been asked to take the concept to other communities to encourage kaumatua to get out and exercise in their front yards.

“Whānau have been messaging me to see if I’ll go out and do the exact same thing in their street to share the wairua in the comfort zones getting fitness and community connection,” Tangiora says.

“It’s fun and I love seeing everyone enjoying themselves.”

Interviewer: Kirsty Babington

Programme: Te Ao with Moana

Broadcaster: Māori Television

Time:4 mins 36 secs