Performing in the Square

A few days ago, I spent a couple of hours hanging about in Christchurch's Cathedral Square. It was a roasting hot, sunny day and the place was packed with locals and visitors alike. Buskers were also out in force - jugglers, a flute player, a singer/guitarist, The Wizard and this young kapa haka group raising funds - I think - for their trip to compete in a kapa haka contest.

I stood and watched them for some time, thinking how good it was that they were willing to get out and 'sing for their supper' as it were. They were very good too. But I was also listening to a much older Maori guy singing and playing the guitar. He had a terrific voice and when it came to making a donation, I chose to my money in his guitar case, rather than in that of the kapa haka group.

But as my $5 note floated down to land among his coins, he suddenly stopped playing and announced "Cool, I have enough for a couple of packets of smokes now. I might call it a day."

I wanted to snatch my $5 back and I felt sick that I was supporting his bad habit rather than the young talents of the kapa haka group.

I'll certainly make a better choice next time. In the meantime, I hope the crowds watching this talented group of young performers have helped them get some way towards their competitions.