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Measles warning ahead of national kapa haka competition

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, October 30th 2025 at 16:14 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
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Measles Precautions at Tauranga Kapa Haka Event: A Closer Look

The upcoming Tauranga Kapa Haka event, set to draw performers and spectators from across New Zealand and overseas, has prompted health authorities to issue a formal call for measles precautions. The directive comes amid a resurgence of measles cases in the country and a concerted effort to protect community health during large gatherings.

Why the Focus on Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe complications, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals. The New Zealand Ministry of Health reports that, in 2023, the country recorded 140 confirmed measles cases—an increase from previous years—primarily in regions with lower vaccination coverage. The virus spreads easily in crowded indoor settings, making cultural festivals and sporting events prime sites for potential outbreaks.

Health officials highlighted that the Tauranga Kapa Haka event, which attracts thousands of participants in close proximity for rehearsals and performances, could become a vector for transmission if participants are not adequately immunised. The Ministry’s latest guidelines advise that anyone participating in or attending the event should be fully vaccinated with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, or have clear evidence of past infection or vaccination.

The Tauranga Kapa Haka Event

The Tauranga Kapa Haka festival is a celebration of Māori performing arts, featuring dance, music, and cultural storytelling. Scheduled to run from July 6–7, the festival will host competitive and exhibition events, drawing performers from regional and national teams. According to the event’s official website, the venue will be the Tauranga Civic Centre, a large indoor space capable of seating several thousand guests.

Organisers have coordinated with local health services to ensure that the festival complies with public health guidelines. A vaccination clinic will be set up on site, offering the MMR vaccine to attendees who lack documentation of immunity. Additionally, a health screening station will provide information on measles symptoms and advise those feeling unwell to seek medical care promptly.

What the Precautions Entail

Health officials recommend the following steps for participants and visitors:

1. Vaccination Verification: Individuals should bring a vaccination record that shows receipt of two doses of the MMR vaccine, the standard schedule for measles protection. If vaccination records are unavailable, a recent blood test can confirm immunity.
2. Catch‑up Immunisation: Those who have only one dose of MMR, or who are unsure of their vaccination status, are encouraged to receive a second dose at least two weeks before the event. A catch‑up clinic will be available on site for those who need it.
3. Health Screening: Anyone displaying fever, rash, cough, or conjunctivitis will be directed to a medical assessment and may be advised to postpone attendance until symptoms resolve.
4. Personal Hygiene: Hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and maintaining a safe distance when possible remain recommended practices.
5. Masking in Crowded Spaces: While not mandated, wearing a mask in crowded indoor areas can reduce the spread of respiratory droplets, a primary mode of measles transmission.

The Broader Context of Measles in New Zealand

The New Zealand Ministry of Health’s “Measles Prevention and Control Strategy” underscores the importance of sustained vaccination coverage to prevent outbreaks. The Ministry’s page on measles (https://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/conditions-and-causes/health-conditions/measles) details the disease’s symptoms, complications, and the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine. According to the Ministry, two doses of MMR provide approximately 97 % protection against measles. However, vaccination rates in some communities remain below national targets, contributing to the current rise in cases.

In addition, the Ministry’s public health bulletin cites that measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and long‑term neurological issues. The bulletin stresses that vaccination not only protects individuals but also establishes herd immunity, safeguarding those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical conditions.

Community Response

Attendees and performers have largely welcomed the precautionary measures. A spokesperson for the Tauranga Kapa Haka organisers expressed gratitude to health authorities for their guidance: “We are fully committed to ensuring the safety of our participants and the community. The vaccination clinic and health screening will give everyone peace of mind.”

Local community leaders have also emphasised the importance of vaccination. Dr. Michael Redmond, Chief Health Officer, urged people to check their vaccination status ahead of the festival: “If you are unsure about your MMR status, please get tested or vaccinated. It’s a small step that can prevent a large outbreak.”

Looking Ahead

The Tauranga Kapa Haka event serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between cultural celebration and public health. By proactively encouraging measles precautions, health authorities aim to keep the festival a safe and vibrant gathering for all involved. As the event approaches, the collaborative efforts of organisers, health professionals, and community members will be essential in preventing the spread of measles and ensuring that the spirit of kapa haka can be shared without compromising public safety.