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National | 2016 Mataatua Regionals

Mataatua Kapa Haka Regionals 2016- Tawera

Tāwera is one of Ruatoki's longest running kapa haka groups and was established in the 1940s. Today they brought to the stage their own unique flavour, reeling in attention from the crowd.

Their mission statement is "Te Matemateaone tētahi ki tētahi".

This year, the group is led by kaitātaki wahine Ria Biddle and kaitātaki tāne Nika Heurea. Tutors include Hiria Te Moana and Gaye Collier.

Their performance talks of those who have passed on and how their presence is still very much felt in every day life.

Another kaupapa the group addressed was the TPPA which has been the controversial topic of discussion in recent months.

Tāwera believes it is important to holdfast the knowledge of their ancestors who are no longer here in the flesh and to insure matemateaone is maintained.

Hiria Te Moana, Tāmati Waaka and Te Waoriki Te Moana are the composers of the items.

Today they are sharing with us their poi, Taku Pūrotu.