We were privileged to provide sponsorship and tautoko (as part of the organising committee and the kaitautoko/kaimanaaki teams) at the Te Hui Ahurei kapa haka o Te Tai o Poutini competition, hosted by Hokitika Primary School on Thursday 29 October.

The hui was the culmination of months of hard work, countless volunteers and a love of kapa haka – not only by the host kura but by more than 600 tamariki and rakatahi who took the stage to represent their kura.

Although only the intermediate section was contested this year, there were a number of kura who participated, including Murchison Area School, who performed for only the third time ever. Congratulations to Westport South School who won the intermediate section.

It was an incredible day and despite the torrential rain leading up to the hui, Tamanui-te-Raki made his presence felt on the day and everyone we have spoken to or heard from loved the atmosphere, performances, kai and the overall day.

The host kura, Hokitika Primary School during their performance.

The host kura, Hokitika Primary School during their performance.

Kaiwhakawā tumeke. From left, Te Rua Mason, Tahu Paki, Lynne Harata Te Aika and Maatakiwi Wakefield.

Kaiwhakawā tumeke. From left, Te Rua Mason, Tahu Paki, Lynne Harata Te Aika and Maatakiwi Wakefield.