Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi took the stage at the Bi-Annual Mataatua Kapa Haka Regionals in 2018, held at Te Teko. At that time, the kapa was made up solely of Wānanga Kaimahi and Tauira, coming together to represent Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi with pride and passion.
In 2024 Te Tohu o Te Ora o Ngāti Awa along with Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa were asked to join the wānanga in part to reinforce our connections with eachother as Ngāti Awa, from this our combined Kapa Ngā Uri o Awanuiārangi was formed.
Practices commenced in November 2023, building momentum and unity as the group prepared for the regional competition held in Tōrere on 23-24 February 2024. Te Tohu o Te Ora o Ngāti Awa proudly had 12 kaimahi performing. Their dedication was rewarded. Ngā Uri o Awanuiārangi placed first in our section, receiving “Te Tangi a te tetere Trophy” he taonga maumahara mo Whaea Emma Rogers.
Participation in Kapa Haka enriches our organisation in many ways, strengthening cultural capability, enhancing identity, and deepening relationships with iwi across Mataatua Rohe. It is a platform where our people stand proudly together, carrying the stories and mana of those who came before us. Today we participate again in the Mataatua Kapa Haka Regionals 2026 alongside our whanaunga. We are privileged to have Koro Des co-tutoring the kapa with Moerangi Black.
Regardless of the results, the experience itself is transformative. Our kaimahi gain confidence, cultural strength, and connection through being part of an event of this scale and significance.
When they step off that stage, they will have carried the pride of their Whānau, Hapū, Iwi, and our Organisation with them.
Mauri Ora
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