Which New Zealand festival celebrates Māori culture and arts?

The Te Matatini Festival is renowned for celebrating Māori culture and arts, primarily through the performance of kapa haka, which encompasses traditional Māori dance, music, and cultural expression. It showcases the talents of various kapa haka groups from across New Zealand, allowing them to compete and perform in a vibrant atmosphere that highlights Māori heritage.

This festival not only promotes the preservation of Māori traditions but also educates a wider audience about Māori culture, fostering understanding and appreciation. It is held every two years and is a significant event in New Zealand's cultural calendar, drawing thousands of visitors and participants.

While other options reference important aspects of New Zealand culture, they do not focus exclusively on Māori traditions. The Pasifika Festival, for example, celebrates the diverse cultures of the Pacific Islands, while the NZ Music Awards highlight achievements in the music industry across various genres. Waitangi Day Celebrations commemorate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, which is significant for both Māori and New Zealand national identity, but it encompasses a broader range of activities rather than specifically focusing on arts and performance.