La cueca is not just a dance, it’s a symbol of Chilean identity.

Cultural connection to music and dance is ingrained in Chilean culture and their dances are used to express emotions and joy.

“When you see us dance, you’ll see us smiling. We love to dance,” said Kunza Dance Group Tauranga event organiser Yasna Concha.

“It’s for the love of our country and the community. It makes our people feel like they are at home for a few minutes.”

The Tauranga group will be giving visitors to the Festival of Cultures in Katikati on April 5 a taste of Chilean traditional dance. They’ll be performing the cultural rapa nui dance, and possibly Chile’s national dance, la cueca.

A staple dance

La cueca is a staple folk dance at Chilean celebrations and known for its rhythm, choreography and symbolism as a dance of courtship.

The rapa nui dances refers to the traditional dances of the people of Easter Island, a territory of Chile.

The dance is Polynesian-inspired. Its rhythmic movements symbolise various aspects of life such as the sea, the sun or the earth. The group would perform the “hoko’’ which is similar in nature to the haka.

Concha said the bond between the rapa nui and Māori people is one of shared ancestry and culture as both groups originate from Polynesia and maintain traditions, languages and customs with similarities today.

Origin and workshop

Kunza Dance Group originated in Auckland and a Tauranga group was established more than a year ago. They have 10 members and are looking for more. Call Yasna for more information on 021 081 05580.

Kunza Dance Group is having a workshop to teach Chilean dance on March 28 at the Papamoa Sports Centre from 6.30-8pm. The workshop is open to the community.

Rapa Nui (Easter Island) is the home of traditional dance the hoko. Photo / Supplied

On April 5 the Festival of Cultures begins with the flag parade of nationalities starting from Katikati College and makes its way along Carisbrooke St to finish at Moore Park.

At Moore Park there will be a powhiri, followed by cultural performances, interactive workshops, arts and crafts stalls and international food.

The details

What: Festival of Cultures

Where: Carisbrook St for the flag parade (10am) leading to Moore Park (11am)

When: April 5, flag parade starts at 10am