Following the incredible journey of New Zealand’s Croatian performing groups as they tour the homeland, bringing together Māori and Croatian cultures in a celebration of heritage and connection.
The Kia Ora Hrvatska 2025 Tour has begun with overwhelming warmth and official recognition in Zagreb, as 50 talented performers from New Zealand embark on a remarkable cultural journey through Croatia. Thanks to regular updates from the Croatian Cultural Society of NZ Inc. Facebook page, followers around the world can witness this extraordinary celebration of Croatian heritage and the beautiful fusion of Māori and Croatian cultures.
Day 1: United in Zagreb
The tour commenced on July 1st at Hotel International, Zagreb, where the anticipation was palpable as performers gathered from across both countries. The touring group represents a diverse collection of talent, with members of Kralj Tomislav FA, Te Rōpū Manutaki, and The Shades, alongside Croatian musicians who have joined this special cultural exchange.
What makes this gathering particularly special is the journey each performer has taken to be there. Some travelled from Croatian coastal gems like Split and Korčula after spending precious time with family, while others arrived directly from New Zealand flights, their excitement for the homeland adventure evident from the moment they landed.
The first day focused on essential preparations – administration, team meetings, and planning for the days ahead. Yet even in these early hours, the strong bonds and positive energy that would define the tour were already evident. The evening’s group dinner served as more than just a meal; it was a moment of unity, setting the tone for the cultural bridge they were about to build between their two beloved homelands.
Day 2: Official Recognition and Cultural Exchange
July 2nd marked a significant milestone for the tour, beginning with official recognition from Croatia’s government. Representatives from the touring group were invited to the Central State Office for Croatians Abroad, where they presented a preview of their program and participated in a meaningful exchange of gifts.
State Secretary Zvonko Milas delivered remarks that captured the essence of what this tour represents. He praised the group’s strength and courage, acknowledging them as creators of an “emotional bridge connecting our two countries.” His recognition of the tour as a celebration of Croatian culture was particularly meaningful, as he noted how the performers displayed their love for their homeland while honouring the beautiful connection between Croatian and Māori cultures.
The official support for the tour was formalized with the Central State Office for Croats Abroad acknowledging their sponsorship, particularly significant given the timing coinciding with the 1100th Anniversary of the Croatian Kingdom. This historical context adds profound meaning to the cultural exchange taking place.
Strengthening Bonds
The day continued with a ceremonial reception at The Croatian Heritage Foundation (Hrvatska matica iseljenika HMI) where the symbolic exchange of gifts between director Mijo Marić and artistic director of Kralj Tomislav FA, Goran Kačurov, represented something far greater than material items. These gifts symbolized friendship, cooperation, and togetherness that truly transcends oceans.
As one of the key sponsors of this special tour, HMI has played a crucial role in making this cultural journey possible. The warm reception and beautiful lunch provided by Matica demonstrated the genuine support and pride the Croatian community feels for these cultural ambassadors.
Preparing for Performance
The practical aspects of touring were addressed with the collection of costumes from Tomislav Miličević, a detail that underscores the attention to authenticity and cultural representation that defines this tour. The afternoon’s intense rehearsals prepared the performers for their upcoming concert, ensuring that their presentation of both Māori and Croatian cultures would meet the high standards expected for such a significant cultural exchange.
Looking Ahead: A Public Celebration
The tour’s first public performance was scheduled for July 3rd at Ante Starčević Square at 8pm – a Holy Sunday concert that promises to showcase the unique fusion of cultures these performers represent.
Following the Journey
For those unable to witness the tour in person, the Croatian Cultural Society of NZ Inc. Facebook page continues to provide wonderful updates and insights into this remarkable cultural journey. Their posts offer followers around the world the opportunity to experience the tour vicariously, sharing in the excitement, challenges, and triumphs of these cultural ambassadors.https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=oa.1244564457108106&type=3
The sponsors supporting this tour – the Central State Office of the Republic of Croatia for Croats Abroad https://hrvatiizvanrh.gov.hr, the Ministry of Demography and Immigration of the Republic, HMI https://matis.hr/novosti/kia-ora-hrvatska-2025/, and the cities hosting concerts – demonstrate the broad support for cultural exchange and heritage celebration.
The early days of this tour have already demonstrated the power of cultural exchange to create understanding, celebrate heritage, and strengthen bonds between communities separated by vast distances but united by shared values and mutual respect. As the tour progresses, it promises to continue delivering memorable performances while deepening the connections between Croatia and New Zealand’s Croatian and Māori communities.
