Drag queens from across Aotearoa have been glamming up for the events, which are a heady mix of talent show, party, drag acts and comedy – all in the name of a good cause!
The Hikoi is only $5 or koha and every cent goes towards the Hui Takatāpui, which this year will focus on the health and well‐being of Māori and rangatahi (youth). The hui aims to increase Māori support for HIV prevention, as well as provide leadership and advice on issues for takatāpui. It also provides an opportunity for takatāpui to network, have fun, play sport and be entertained in a safe and supportive social environment.
Whangarei, Auckland and Hamilton have all seen huge crowds turn up for the Hikoi, with queues outside the venues as party‐goers vied for front stage spots. Auckland’s Hikoi featured special (and unexpected) guest Gok Wan, the UK’s favourite fashionista. He’d taken time out from his hectic NZ schedule to pay the Hikoi a visit, mingling and chatting with the crowds.
At the moment the Hikoi has raised more than $3,500 towards the annual Hui Takatāpui in Wellington, which is being held 29th‐31st October at the city’s Pipitae Marae.
The Hikoi is venturing down to Christchurch this Saturday (14th August) and will take place at Cruz Bar in Lichfield Street at 9pm. Its final stop, the grand finale, will be in Wellington’s Ivy Bar, Dixon Street, at 9pm on 21st August. It promises to be the most extravagant Hikoi yet!
Family Bar’s Miss Ribena, who has been pivotal in organising the Hikoi, said: “It’s been out of control, from Whangarei to Hamilton, one waka (canoe) and a whole lot of outrageousness! We look forward to rocking down to Christchurch this weekend!”
For more information on the Hikoi or to look at some of the photos please visit our Facebook page by clicking here. Information packs on the Hui Takatāpui and registration details are available at www.nzaf.org.nz/huitakatapui.
For further comment please contact:
Dawn O’Connor
National Communications Coordinator
New Zealand AIDS Foundation | Te Tūāpapa Mate Āraikore o Aotearoa
p| 09 300 6965 m| 021 741 604
e| .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
