The hugely popular Murihiku and Central Lakes Polyfests will be developed and produced as digital, virtual, online events for 2020.

The change was announced by Mīharo Murihiku Trust in response to current restrictions around gathering and an uncertain future due to COVID-19.

Director Pauline smith said the trust was passionate about continuing to support art, culture, youth and education and had seized embraced the opportunity reinvent how the festivals were delivered. 

The Murihiku and Central Lakes Polyfests had become strong cultural and arts platforms for around 9000 young people across the regions to showcase their talents. Mīharo was determined that recent events did not impinge on arts and cultural gains that Polyfest had offered communities over the past 10 years, she said. Polyfest had empowered people to share their culture, given a shared sense of belonging and identity, supported people to realise their potential, invited hundreds of volunteers to have purposeful involvement in important events and enriched the community.

Pauline said details were still being worked through, as there was a lot to consider, but the team was invigorated by the challenges, problem solving and rewards this would offer. The date of the event was likely to be pushed out to later in the yea,r which could have benefits for groups giving them more time to practice.

Updates and information will be communicated as details are finalised. In the meantime, Mīharo is encouraging groups to keep practising and perfecting their Polyfest performances.