ABOUT 

MANIORO was established in 2022 by founders of Nevertheless - Maia Wati-Cooper & Shaqaila Uelese with the vision of creating an event that empowered people to disrupt toxic narratives and stereotypes through Storytelling, Creativity and Education. 

Manioro has evolved into a 3-day festival that seeks to disrupt shame with love and stigma with connection, especially for Māori, Pasifika & Rainbow+ Communities across Aotearoa. Manioro takes us on a journey of disruption that focuses on educating whānau, workplaces and communities around how we all play a role in disrupting unhealthy narratives and stereotypes for the promotion of wellbeing and equity as a society. 

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Manioro 2026 is made up of four unique events. 

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OPEN EVENING - All are invited to our Manioro Open Evening filled with Inspirational Speakers, Local Māori & Pasifika talent, opportunities to network and a local fashion show. 

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EDUCATION SESSION - Our Education session is focused on providing rich perspective and discussions around shaping empowered futures for Rainbow+ peoples. This session is tailored more towards workplaces and whānau - people who support Rainbow+ communities. 

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AWARDS & GALA EVENING - Join us for an extravagant evening celebrating Rainbow+ Excellence in Hawke's Bay. Enjoy an all-queer band from around Aotearoa, led by White Chapel Jak's lead singer Bonnie. 

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CULTURAL WORKSHOPS - Manioro ends with our Toi Moana workshops and Tā Moko Panel. Come and attend our free Māori and Pasifika cultural workshops. The highlight will be our Tā Moko panel featuring talented Takatāpui who have embarked on the journey of Tā Moko either as practitioners or embracers.