The Tainui Regional kapa haka competition took place over the weekend, with groups across the region performing at Hamilton’s Globox Arena.
Twenty-two groups were in contention, all vying for a spot at the Te Matatini National Kapa Haka Festival in Taranaki next year.
This year’s winners, Mōtai Tangata Rau, captured the audience’s attention with their Victorian-inspired attire worn under their piupiu.
Group leader Paraone Gloyne told breakfast he was incredibly proud of his rōpū but stressed the performance was delivered "in humility".
“We’re proud, but we’re humble,” he said.
He said the performance told the story of the Kīngitanga movement’s establishment – which is why they chose Victorian outfits.
He also dedicated the performance to Kīngi Tūheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII.
Tainui confirms five qualifying spots after two groups pull out
Five kapa haka, instead of six, will represent Tainui after two groups pulled out of contention.
Twenty-two kapa haka were registered to perform at the regionals which meant there were six qualifying spaces for Te Matatini 2025 available, but only five groups were announced at prize giving pending a decision on the sixth.
In a statement, the Tainui Waka Cultural Trust organising committee said one group pulled out of the competition and another withdrew from the competitive component of the event.
"The lesser than intended number of competitive kapa is regrettable, as it has adversely affected the progression of sixth placed, Hauraki Kōwhao Rau, who made history with a powerful debut performance for the iwi of Hauraki."
Kōkō Tangiwai takes out Waitaha regional competition on debut
New group Kōkō Tangiwai took out the Waitaha regional kapa haka competition on debut.
The group impressed with a strong performance, opening the bracket with a fierce whakaeke to the tune of Coolio’s Gangsta’s Paradise, and paying tribute to the regional competition's 60th anniversary, dedicating their waiata-ā-ringa to the occasion.
Overall, 13 kapa haka vied for one of four qualifying spots, the most the event has seen since 2016.
Kapa haka heading to Te Matatini 2025
Tainui
1. Mōtai Tangata Rau
2. Te Pou o Mangataawhiri
3. Te Iti Kahurangi
4. Te Kapa Haka o Ngā Pua o Te Kōwhara
5. Te Pae Kahurangi.
Waitaha
1. Kōkō Tangiwai
2. Ngā Manu a Tāne
3. Te Ahikaaroa
4. Ngā Hau e Whā ki Murihiku.
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