Marae marks refugee day with festival

Dunedin’s Araiteuru Marae will celebrate World Refugee Day this Saturday with a multicultural gala day and festival.

Araiteuru Marae manager Tania Williams said World Refugee Day "serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience, courage, and contributions of refugees worldwide".

"As a community, we believe in coming together to celebrate diversity and extend our support to those who have been forced to flee their homes," she said.

People of all walks of life are invited to mark the day by being part of a vibrant gala day of stalls, performances, and community engagement, hosted by Araiteuru Marae, Red Cross, Ko Ngā Rourou Manaaki, and The Starfish Collective.

The event will run from 10am-2pm this Saturday, June 8, at Araiteuru Marae, 24 Shetland St.

"We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive space where everyone can come together to share their talents, stories, and cultures," Ms Williams said.

"Let’s stand together on our marae, in solidarity with refugees and celebrate the richness of our diverse community."