Jump to navigation Jump to content
Ngā Uri Taniwha are one of five teams debuting at Te Matatini Fesitval next week and they're also one of the local groups preparing to represent their region of Wellington.
More than 60,000 people are expected to attend Te Matatini 2019 so "hardcore spectator" Tenga Rangitauira has made a list of tips for people wanting to get a prime spot to watch.
The role of the Manu Ngangahu isn't solely to flirt and excite, it's a vital leadership position that is part of ensuring an iwi executes its plans successfully, according to Naomi Houia of Te Whānau a Apanui, who's been given the role by her elders.
The pūkana of wāhine is an expression of love, according to haka exponent Hinematioro Nohotima.
Hako is the result of the body being left to freely express itself, according to East Coast haka leader Ngarimu Parata. He says its a style that is unique to his Ngāti Porou people.
Hātea proudly represent Te Tai Tokerau in every aspect of their performance.
Matatini goers may be excited to find that along with a showcase of today's greatest kapa haka talents they will also have the chance at taking a look back at some classic haka moments.
Northern kapa, Muriwhenua, are challenging wāhine from all Te Matatini groups to get tested for cervical cancer before the competition.
Many karakia have been performed on the Matatini stage since its inception, however, they've risen in prominence as groups get more creative. On #MataHaka tonight, Te Kāea speaks to Ora Kihi, of defending champions Whāngārā Mai Tawhiti, about the edge that karakia brought to their winning performance in 2017.
From team preparations to the disciplines of haka itself, whaikōrero has become a feature of group performances. Since Tamati Waaka first took on the role as leader for Te Kapa Haka o Te Whānau-a-Apanui, he's found a way to stand out amongst the crowd whilst staying true to the fundamentals of whaikōrero.
In the lead-up to Te Matatini, Te Kāea has a number of special features focusing on the disciplines and practices of kapa haka. Tonight's edition looks at the karanga.
Hikurangi kapa haka are fine-tuning their bracket as they prepare for the upcoming Te Matatini Kapa Haka National Competition.
