Competition

The Manu World Champs will begin on December 7.

Many kura kaupapa Māori across the country are preparing for their regional campaign but another burden rears its head for many struggling whānau.

The Z Manu World Championships will return for a second year with more qualifying events across more cities and increased prize money.

They will compete in gentle competitions, doing activities like balancing on one leg, sit to stand for 30 seconds and time up and go (timed walking of 6 metres).

With $1,500 and a “coveted” crown on the line, many of Auckland’s fabulous drag queens and kings are fighting it out to win it all.

“It’s fantastic to see a mix of people in our top 12 – we’ve got a good range of iwi representation, age and gender.”

As most of the world celebrates Pride Month, the Mr Australiasia Bear title has been rewarded to Aotearoa, making it the first time in seven years since New Zealand was crowned.

World Fire Knife Champions weigh in on what they think the level of competition is like in New Zealand as they take workshops.