Thousands of Otago pre-schoolers and pupils are demonstrating their cultural diversity in Dunedin this week, in the largest annual Otago Early Childhood and Schools' Maori and Pacific Island Festival held to date.
Dubbed Polyfest, the event is in its 19th year and comprises about 3500 children from the wider Dunedin area, including Strath Taieri, and from as far afield as Palmerston and the Catlins.
With an estimated 7000 spectators, including parents and teachers, Polyfest was one of Otago's largest annual arts and cultural events, committee chairman Whetu Cormick said.
Mr Cormick, Bathgate Park School's principal, said for the 79 groups performing this year it was the culmination of months of practice.
Each group had 10 minutes on stage throughout the three-day programme, held at the Lion Foundation Arena at the Edgar Centre.
Most groups performed waiata and haka, used poi and incorporated aspects of traditional Maori performance attire.
Polyfest was officially opened on Tuesday night and involved daytime performances for the rest of the week and a secondary school showcase tonight.
Mr Cormick said all Otago preschools and schools were invited to participate, but some organised separate events closer to home.
There was no judging, just encouragement and applause, he said.
All performances are open to the public.
