Sixty-two haka groups are set to perform in Tauranga next week at the 25th anniversary of Te Mana Kuratahi, the National Primary Schools Kapa Haka competition.
From small beginnings with just over 20 rōpū, Te Mana Kuratahi has grown into a nationwide celebration of Māori excellence and identity, with the competition running all week – from Monday to Friday – to accommodate all the groups.
Among those taking the stage are the defending champions Te Kapa Puāwai of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Hoani Waititi Marae from Auckland, who have competed in every Te Mana Kuratahi since it began 25 years ago, lifting the national title a record setting four times.
Kaiārahi o Te Kapa Puāwai Te Ora Pahewa said it was a surreal feeling.
“I stood on that first stage in 2000 at Hopuhopu representing my kura, our entire school, our whānau, both sets of grandparents were there to tautoko. You felt like a superstar.
“Now, to stand here as the kaiārahi, guiding our next generation, it’s come full circle. The scale might be bigger, but the kaupapa hasn’t changed – pride in who you are, and belief in your ao Māori.”
Tutor says the competition has shaped generations of performers.
Sandra Waitai, Kaiārahi of Ngā Mahuri, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Rangianiwaniwa from Kaitaia said the tamariki from the Mana Kuratahi stage are the reason Te Matatini is so strong on Saturday.
“All three of my eldest children came through Te Mana Kuratahi, my youngest was five years old on that stage 20 years ago in Tauranga, and now her own son is performing next week.
“The tamariki we had back then, alongside Chris – my husband – and I, now have their own children taking the stage. This is where it all started for us. Ngā Mahuri o Te Rangianiwaniwa are our heart, we’ve always believed in sharing our skills, supporting our whānau, and nurturing the next generation.
“The growth of haka in Muriwhenua has been incredible to see. Our children lead the creations and innovations, while we stay hands-on with the babies, nurturing their love for kapa haka.”
Waitai said those tamariki are growing up in a time where haka and reo excellence comes naturally.
“That’s what 25 years of Te Mana Kuratahi has done for our people.”
The first rōpū to take the stage on Monday will be Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Mana Tamariki from Rangitāne.
Tumuaki (principal) and guitarist Kaimoni Soutar said the tamariki understand what it means to open Te Mana Kuratahi to the people.
“They’re focused, grounded, and carrying the mana of their whānau, their tūpuna, and Te Aho Matua with them. You can feel the wairua; ko te mana o ngā tamariki te whai.”
The kaupapa goes far beyond competition, he said.
“It’s about helping them see the brilliance that’s already inside them. Given what’s happening in politics and the media, our tamariki are standing tall as living proof of our strength and hope. They remind us that kia Māori mai i ngā wā katoa, i ngā wāhi katoa – to be proudly Māori, wherever and whenever. We’ve got their backs.”
Tauranga ready for the motu
Across Tauranga, from the harbour to the airport, billboards, flags, and welcome banners celebrated the local kura stepping onto the national stage.
The 62 kapa were being hosted across 26 marae, kura, holiday parks, and motels, each ready to manaaki the next generation of performers.
Te Waka Pererua organiser Aurere Thatcher said: “We’ve created a locals’ guide book so Te Mana Kuratahi can discover Tauranga’s stories, from the history of Mauao and how long it takes to climb, to fun things for tamariki at local attractions.
“Performing kura even get discounted pool entry, just show your lanyard. It’s all about manaakitanga and making sure the kids have the best time while they’re here.”
Aurere said the wairua of kapa haka has lifted the city.
“Hīkaka ana mātou! Everyone’s part of it, fill your wairua cup with kapa haka and mokopuna magic everywhere you go.”
Precautions against measles
A Māori health coalition asked those attending Te Mana Kuratahi to take precautions to prevent measles from spreading.
Dr Nina Bevin from the National Hauora Coalition said concerns were raised at a hui with Māori and Pacific GPs this week.
“We’ve had some assurances from the National Public Health Service. They’ve been working with the organising committee of the event, and there will be on-site immunisation providers and health services.
“They’ll also be asking the kapa to check their vaccination status before travelling to Tauranga for the event.”
Bevin said those with children under one should be cautious about attending large public events right now.
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