An annual Filipino basketball tournament that continues to grow in popularity is this weekend bringing together hundreds of players and spectators from across the North Island, as Tauranga plays host to a passionate celebration of culture – both on and off the court.

The event which has been running for three days over the Matariki long weekend and ends today, features more than 70 teams playing across 13 divisions – including children, youth, and adults.

More than 70 teams are playing across 13 divisions – including children, youth, and adults. Photo / Supplied

Jason Rigon, President of Club Filipino Tauranga, said this weekend is an opportunity to celebrate two different cultures and their shared values and traditions.

“It’s not just a sports tournament – it’s a celebration of culture, diversity, inclusivity, heritage, and community,” he said.

“As we gather to honour Philippine Independence Day and welcome the season of Matariki, we celebrate the values that connect both cultures: remembering our ancestors, celebrating our identity, and sharing light with our communities.”

The event is being held at Mercury Baypark Arena in Mount Maunganui. Festivities started on Friday with a welcome and opening celebration that marked both the Māori New Year and Philippine Independence Day, which is officially celebrated on June 12 each year.

“This year, we celebrate two meaningful traditions. Both are rooted in remembrance, community, and hope,” Rigon said.

“In Filipino culture, we also look to the stars through the parol, the traditional star lantern that lights our way during times of celebration and faith. The parol symbolises hope, freedom, and the enduring spirit of the Filipino people. Just as the Matariki stars shine during the darkness of winter, the parol shines through hardship and inspires unity, especially among Filipinos around the world.”

The annual event is not just a sports tournament but also a celebration of culture, diversity, inclusivity, heritage, and community. Photo / Supplied

As well as three days of non-stop basketball, this year’s event includes a range of cultural presentations, a pageant, support services, and community activities including dance performances, food stalls, a play area for children, and arts and crafts displays.

Paul Dunphy, General Manager of Community Facilities at Bay Venues, said Mercury Baypark Arena has been transformed over the three days into a vibrant community festival space celebrating both culture and sport.

“This is the third consecutive year we’ve hosted this hugely popular event, and it just keeps growing. We’re excited to welcome everyone back and help create even more lasting memories for both our Tauranga locals and visitors to the city.”

Tauranga City Council’s Haidee Kalirai, Strategic Advisor of Ethnic, Migrant and Pacific Communities, said the Filipino community is one of Tauranga’s largest migrant communities and contributes significantly to the economic, cultural, and social fabric of the city.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the richness and diversity of our cultures and community during this special time of year. We encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the celebration, and experience the vibrant spirit of Filipino culture.”

This year’s event will include a range of cultural presentations and community activities including dance performances, food stalls, a play area for children, and arts and crafts displays. Photo / Supplied

Tauranga City Council’s Manager of Venues and Events, Nelita Byrne, said cultural, community-driven events are a vital part of what makes Tauranga a great place to live.

“Events like this are key to Tauranga’s vibrancy. They help reflect and celebrate the many cultures that call our wonderful city home, providing opportunities to bring people together and celebrate special traditions.”

She said the event was supported by the Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund, which aims to support a diverse, year-round calendar of events that not only contribute to community wellbeing but also create memorable experiences for locals and visitors.

The Tauranga Western Bay Community Event Fund, established in partnership by Acorn Foundation, BayTrust, Tauranga City Council, TECT, and Western Bay of Plenty District Council, provides grant funding to support community-led events and those that encourage free or low-cost participation. The 2024/25 funding year saw 99 events funded throughout the Western Bay and Tauranga region.