Today marks one year since the Whakaari, White Island eruption that claimed the lives of 22 people.
To start the commemorations today, Ngāti Awa held a karakia or dawn ceremony at Te Hau o te Rangi, a reserve on the Whakatāne foreshore looking out towards White Island.
Tears were shed among close to 300 people who attended the ceremony including iwi members, whānau pani (the relations of the deceased) and other members of the community.
Ngāti Awa kaumātua led the ceremony reciting prayer from the Hāhi Rangitū (Rangitū Church).
7-8am Te Ao Tapatahi
The one-hour morning show Te Ao Tapatahi feature live in-depth interviews with prominent figures including Emergency Management Minister, Kiritapu Allen, Ngāti Awa leader Joe Harawira and more.
Throughout the day special karakia and services will be held in Whakatāne to mark the first anniversary of the eruption that occurred on December 9, 2019.
Te Ao Māori News will provide live coverage throughout the day via multiple platforms online, on television and on Facebook.
1-2.30pm Mataatua Wharenui special broadcast
The team at Te Ao will present a one and a half hour broadcast from a commemoration service held at Mataatua Wharenui.
The service will be attended by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, Her Excellency The Rt Hon Dame Patsy Reddy and whānau who lost loved ones during the eruption.
4.30 – 5.30pm Te Ao Mārama
The evening news show Te Ao Mārama will provide continued coverage from the day across all platforms including online, on television and live on Facebook.
More to come.