Waikato Taniwharu Pakeke are the fourth group to perform today at the Tainui Waka regionals at Claudelands Arena, Hamilton, Waikato. Strong supporters of the Koroneihana and Poukai across the motu, this team is made up of members throughout the Waikato region.
The group also plays a significant role in the preservation of their taonga and support events like the Matariki Kaumatua event at the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, Waikato Awa workshops at the Auckland Museum and the Te Puea exhibition at Waikato Museum.
Today the group is led by Turongo Paki (male leader) and Kahurangi Muru (female leader) and the item they have choose to share is their Whakaeke (entrance) called “Te Kupu a te Whiti”. This song is a ngahau song that highlights the prophetic saying of Kiingi Taawhiao.