Issue 27 - Waikato

Transcription

Issue 27 - Waikato

E RERE ATU NA
SPECIAL EDITION: ISSUE 27 - NOVEMBER 2008
Whiringa-aa-rangi
Squamish First Nation, A marriage made in the
Waikato, Artist Fred Graham
Junior Feature Writer
Maaori Issues Category
Qiane corfield-matata
Te Aakitai/Te Ahiwaru, Makaurau Marae - Ihumaatao
journalist/photographer - mana magazine
"I’m a natural communicator. I love to talk, talk, talk!
"We need more of our rangatahi looking at careers in the media. Every day is different. One day I could be interviewing
a kuia, and the next day I’m doing a photo shoot with a famous musician.
“It’s a great industry to be in and I get to tell our stories and showcase our people to the world."
Photo by Len Hetet
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05 A Deed of Settlement
08 MOU with Squamish
09 Koroneihana 2008
12 Te Puna Kai Exhibition
13 A marriage made in the
Waikato - Herangi whaanau
16 Competitions and Grants
18 Marae Insurance Package
2009
19 Fred Graham - he’s a bit of
a joker
22 Stream2Summit
24 Mihi Forbes - Campbell Live
26 Climbing Mountains - Annie
Doyle
28 Waikato ki roto o Poneke
31 Warren Dion Smith - a cut
above the rest
34 Leon Wharekura and Nat
Rose
38 Brothers - Warriors in Arms
39 Maramataka
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05
ISSUE #27
NOVEMBER 2008
Whiringa-aa-rangi
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Cover: Korotangi
Korotangi - the sacred talisman that
accompanied the Tainui waka from Hawaiiki
to Aotearoa in the 13th Century.
The Crown returned Korotangi to WaikatoTainui in 1995 as part of the tribe’s Waikato
Raupatu Settlement.
On this month’s cover, Korotangi bares
witness to the signing of the Waikato River
Claim Deed of Settlement 2008.
2008 NOVEMBER/WHIRINGA AA RANGI - TE HOOKIOI
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Ka maatakitaki iho au ki te riu o
Waikato
Anoo nei he kapo kau ake maaku
Ki te kapu o taku ringa
Ka whakamiri noa I toona aratau
E tia nei he tupu pua hou
Kia hiwa ake te Tihi o Pirongia
Inaa he toronga whakaruruhau
moona
Ki tooku tauaawhirotanga
Anaa! Te ngoto o toona ngaawhaa
I oona uma kiihai I aarikarika
A Maungatautari, a Maungaakawa
Ooku puke maunga, ngaa taonga
tuku iho.
Hoki ake nei au ki tooku awa
koiora me oona pikonga
He kura tangihia o te mataamuri
E whakawhiti atu ai I te koopu
mania o Kirikiriroa
Me oona maara kai, te ngaawhaa
whakatupu ake o te whenua
momona
Hei kawe ki Ngaaruawaahia, te
huinga o te tangata
Araa, te pae haumako hei
okiokinga moo taku uupoko
Hei tirohanga atu maa raro I ngaa
huuhaa o Taupiri
Kei reira raa, kei te
orokohanganga o te tangata
Waahia te tuungaroa o te whare,
te whakaputanga moo te Kiingi
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TE HOOKIOI - WHIRINGA AA RANGI/NOVEMBER 2008
I look down on the valley of
Waikato
As though to hold it in the hollow
of my hand
And caress its beauty
Like some tender verdant thing
I reach out from the top of
Pirongia
As though to cover and protect its
substance with my own
See, how it bursts through the
full bosoms of Maungatautari
and Maungaakawa Hills of my
inheritance
The river of life, each curve more
beautiful than the last
Across the smooth belly of
Kirikiriroa, its gardens bursting
with the fullness of good things
Towards the meeting place at
Ngaaruawaahia
There on the fertile mound I would
rest my head and look through the
thighs of Taupiri
There at the place of all creations
Let the King come forth
More than 1,500 hundred people witnessed the signing
of the Deed of Settlement for the Waikato River, at a
special ceremony hosted in August on the riverbank
below Tuurangawaewae Marae. It was a momentous
occasion and the ceremony posed an impressive sight
with the river itself providing a spectacular, panoramic
and natural backdrop.
The negotiators Lady Raiha Mahuta, Tukoroirangi
Morgan, and Treaty Negotiations Minister Dr Michael
Cullen, along with their officials took centre stage to sign
and witness the deed in front of a jubilant audience.
Amongst those in attendance with Waikato-Tainui,
were Crown representatives from many local, regional
and national organisations, iwi delegates from around
the country, dignitaries from indigenous nations, a large
contingency of media, and students from a number of
wharekura, primary and secondary schools.
Around 30 kuia recited pao or laments giving a
historical account of the river’s journey from Karapiro
to the sea at Te Puuaha o Waikato.
The programme also included a mass haka following
the arrival of King Tuheitia’s fleet of waka tauaa,
and special tributes to the late Sir Robert Te Kotahi
Mahuta and Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu, who were
instrumental in initiating treaty negotiations on behalf
of Waikato-Tainui, and achieving settlement of the
tribe’s raupatu claim in 1995.
“This claim has spanned 21 years,” said Lady Raiha.
“Many of our leaders and kaumaatua have gone and
it is right that they be honoured with this settlement.
“Tuku and I would like to express our appreciation for
the contribution of Dr Cullen in achieving this deed for
our people. We also acknowledge the contribution of
the Hon Mark Burton in the initial stages, as well as
the on-going support we have received from Ministers
Parekura Horomia and Mita Ririnui.”
Speeches reinforced that the overarching purpose
of the Waikato River settlement, is to restore and
protect the health and wellbeing of the river for future
generations. Mr Morgan said the vision and strategy
to clean up the river will be given the highest level of
recognition in law.
“This deed provides for new Waikato River governance
Boards representing iwi and Crown interests, and
central to the settlement is the establishment of the
Guardians of the Waikato River, and the Waikato
River Statutory Board which will be vehicle’s for comanagement.
“While there is still work to be done to put new
arrangements in place, the settlement affirms the
Crown’s commitment to its relationship with WaikatoTainui, and lays the foundation for an exciting new era
of co-management.”
Following a touching rendition in remembrance of Te
Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu by nationally acclaimed
kapa haka group Te Iti Kahurangi, a further highlight
of the day was a performance by one of Aotearoa’s
leading female soul artists Hollie Smith, with her
national chart topper ‘Bathe in the River”.
Commemorative pins were handed out to mark the
historic day and in closing, the master of ceremony
Rahui Papa said, “today we are all guardians of the
Waikato River and together we celebrate it’s future
health and wellbeing.”
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First Reading of the Bill
The first reading of the Bill to implement the Deed of Settlement for the Waikato River, took place at parliament
in late September.
The legislation recognises the importance of the river to the country, the special relationship of the river with
Waikato-Tainui, and for the first time, provides a framework for the management of the river.
In summary, the legislation:
•Establishes the Guardians of the Waikato River.
The guardians are responsible for promoting implementation of the vision and strategy which was developed with public participation earlier this year by the Guardians Establishment Committee. Waikato-Tainui, other river iwi, and regional and national stakeholders will be represented on the Guardians of the Waikato River.
•Establishes the Waikato River Statutory Board responsible for implementing and monitoring the vision and strategy between Karapiro and Port Waikato in a co-management framework with Waikato-Tainui.
•Provides legislative recognition for the vision and strategy.
•Establishes a clean up fund for the Waikato River to which the Crown will contribute at least $7m per year for 30 years.
The settlement also:
•Establishes relationships between Ministers of the Crown and Waikato-Tainui through a Kiingitanga Accord.
•Funds the participation of Waikato-Tainui in this process and the operation of both the Guardians and the
River Board.
•Provides a fund of $50m from which Waikato-Tainui can lead initiatives to restore and protect their
relationship to the river.
•Provides a sum of $20m to the Tainui Endowed College established by the late Sir Robert Te Kotahi Mahuta.
Interim Statutory Board for the Waikato River
The Waikato River Statutory Board Establishment Committee has been put in place until settlement legislation
has been enacted, and held it’s first meeting in late October.
The interim committee is tasked to investigate and report on recommendations for the potential transfer of a function,
power or duty of a local authority, to either the permanent Waikato Statutory Board, or to the Waikato Raupatu
River Trust – a trust established by Waikato-Tainui to undertake tribal initiatives, exercise Mana Whakahaere from
Karapiro to Te Puuaha o Waikato, and receive and manage the settlement redress.
The interim committee will report to Waikato-Tainui, the Crown and relevant local authorities which make
recommendations on:
a.the transfer of any functions, powers and duties in the short-term;
b.a timetable and key steps for the transfer of any functions, powers and duties in the medium to long-term;
c.addressing any impediments and/or pre-conditions to a transfer.
The report is to be completed by 1 March 2009.
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Progressing the Deed of Settlement
The Deed of Settlement provides for a range of post-settlement obligations and commitments, and will not become
final until they are met. These include:
•the completion of portfolio-specific Accords;
•development of an Integrated Management Plan;
•development of regulations,
•obligations in relation to river-related lands; and
•the completion of scoping studies.
The settlement legislation will come into effect progressively in parts, by Order-in-Council as key instruments are
completed.
Post settlement work continues to be progressed and in late October, a Fisheries Accord and a Conservation
Accord were signed off.
Seven further portfolio-specific Accords between Ministers/Chief Executives and Waikato-Tainui, are yet to be
negotiated and finalised.
For more information contact the Claims and Environment Unit on 0800 TAINUI.
Below: Treaty Negotiations Minister Dr Michael Cullen signs the Deed of Settlement for the Waikato River in the presence of Minister for Maaori Affairs Parekura Horomia and Waikato-Tainui
co-negotiator Tukoroirangi Morgan. August 2008.
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International relationships and global alliances with other
indigenous peoples provided more reason for celebrations
during Koroneihana, when the tribe signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU) with one of Canada’s largest
indigenous tribes.
“The downturn in our financial market place this year has
reaffirmed the need to maintain a strong portfolio. We both
have common business interests that need to be explored
further in order to achieve a competitive edge that will
benefit both parties,” said Mr Morgan.
Waikato-Tainui and the Squamish First Nation of Vancouver,
British Columbia, signed the MOU with the aim of working
together towards a shared goal of self-sufficiency.
The Squamish First Nation has commercially robust
business interests including fisheries, land development
and forestry. They also have billions of dollars worth of
reserve land and earn tens of millions a year in income
from existing leases and businesses.
Here as guests of the tribe and Kiingi Tuheitia, Chief Gibby
Jacob of the Squamish First Nation Chief and Council, said
this alliance signalled a commitment from both parties to
explore cultural and socio-economic advantages.
“I’d rather spend money with other indigenous groups and
help them onto the road of self-sufficiency. This is important for
both parties who share a cultural synergy where tribal values
would underpin any future business or cultural exchange
opportunities that may evolve,” said Chief Gibby Jacob.
Chair of Te Arataura Tukoroirangi Morgan, signed the MOU
on behalf of Waikato-Tainui alongside Chief Gibby Jacob,
and said the relationship was also a stepping stone in
building partnerships with other indigenous groups.
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This year Tainui Group Holdings Ltd reported a growth in
the tribe’s portfolio with a total tribal asset base of $570m.
“This partnership is not just about business either,” Mr
Morgan added. “We also share in cultural synergies with
regards to the retention and revitalisation of our respective
languages.”
After the signing, Chief Gibby Jacob, who celebrated with
an impromptu ‘kanikani’ with Waikato-Tainui kuia, said he
looked forward to growing the relationship between the
Squamish and Waikato-Tainui.
Pictured: Members of the Squamish delegation including Council Chief Gibby Jacob
(second from right) and Chief Ian Campbell (far right).
For the dedicated kaimahi hosting this year’s
Koroneihana Celebrations, it was business as
usual. With hundreds in attendance for the weeklong gathering, the many hands ‘behind the scenes’
contributed to its success.
hundreds of students who volunteer their time
to waitress in Kimiora (the dining hall). This year,
some 200 students from schools throughout
Waikato, Auckland and as far as Dannevirke,
attended to the daily duties.
“There’s a lot of logistics involved in running
Koroneihana, so those kaimahi who with their
whaanau, return every year to support this kaupapa,
highlight the importance of Kiingitanga to the
people,” said Koroneihana Committee Secretary
Joyce Paekau.
“It’s good to see all the different kura coming to
support this kaupapa. For some of these kids it’s
their first time at Koroneihana and they come to
Tuurangawaewae Marae and jump straight into
the mahi. That in itself is very humbling when you
consider what these celebrations are all about –
and that is bringing the motu together,” said Sam.
20 beasts, 20 pigs, 20 crates of cabbages, 20 crates
of cauliflower, two bins of potatoes, one bin of
pumpkin, a pallet of onions and carrots, and 720
two litre bottles of milk helped to feed the many
visitors that converged on Tuurangawaewae Marae
in August.
Pacific dignitaries, iwi leaders and members of
parliament were just some of the visitors who
attended. Music, kapa haka, sporting events
including netball, indoor bowls and golf, again
featured as crowd favourites.
For the past two years, Sam Toka (Ngaati Mahuta,
Taniwha Marae), has helped to coordinate
This year there were two significant ceremonies
included in the Koroneihana programme; the
signing of the tribe’s historical Deed of Settlement
for the Waikato River Claim, and the signing
of a Memorandum of Understanding with the
Squamish First Nation people.
During his address, Kiingi Tuheitia acknowledged
the link between the health and wellbeing of the
river and the health and wellbeing of WaikatoTainui, highlighting that both are ‘strongly
connected’.
Pages 10 - 11: Scenes from Koroneihana 2008
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Opened at the Waikato Museum early last month, the
exhibition ‘Te Puna Kai’, is a celebration of Poukai which
contains some wonderful images captured by Museum
photographer Beau Morgan.
“I didn’t have an intimate knowledge of Te Kiingitanga but have
learnt much in my travels following Kiingi Tuheitia to Poukai and
to formal events around the North Island. It was an experience
I will not forget,” said Beau.
“These photos represent a time of change for Te Kiingitanga
but on a more personal note, they depict my learning and my
appreciation for our people and our history.”
The exhibition has been developed with the support of the
Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust to recognise 150 years of
Kiingitanga, and reflects Poukai as a time of remembrance.
Waikato Museum Photographer Beau Morgan

The ‘pocket’ Poukai Calendar concept was a hit through 2008 and the 2009 edition
is hot off the press!
For your own 2009 Pocket Poukai Calendar, freephone 0800 TAINUI or email:
reneer@tainui.co.nz.
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It was over 50 years ago that Rawerawe Karaka
(Ngaati Tipa), was told she was going to marry Hikairo
Herangi (Ngaati Mahuta, Ngaati Ngaawaeroa). Young,
determined and having never met her husband-to-be,
nerves and anxiety were at the forefront of her mind.
“You don’t get married like how we did anymore dear. Our
marriage was very special and you know what, I had a
boyfriend at the time – I thought I was marrying him,” she
laughs, gesturing to “her mate”, waiting for him to agree.
The pair was married by Kiingi Koroki, in the forecourt of
Turongo House at Tuurangawaewae Marae. The late King,
who was married to Hikairo’s sister Te Atairangikaahu, oversaw
the nuptials as Rawerawe recalls. “My tuupuna were all there
sitting around, smiling at us. He (Koroki) grabbed both our
hands and wrapped a piece of flax around them and that was
our ring. After that he married us. I said ‘am I married to him?’
and they all replied yes. I thought bugger this hahaha.”
Despite the uncertainty, the two “grew to love each other” she
said, having a family of nine children and dedicating much
of their life to the restoration of Tuurangawaewae Marae, a
legacy they continue in the footsteps of Hikairo’s aunty, Te
Puea Herangi.
“I was a very sick child when she first came to see me,” explains
Rawerawe, who was born and raised in Tuakau. “I was almost
dead and she brought me back…that is the power that woman
had. My tuupuna told me from that day forward, I would work
for her (Te Puea) for the rest of my life to repay what she had
given me.”
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Taupo. He also continues to oversee the fleet of waka tauaa at
Tuurangawaewae.
Rawerawe has supported many of the projects her husband
has been involved with including the restoration of tukutuku
at several marae within Waikato-Tainui. Her meticulous works
can be seen at the Waikato Museum and in Raukawa at
Tuurangawaewae Marae. Over the many years, she has also
created beautiful kete whakairo, an area which she is also
an expert, as taonga for international visitors, diplomats and
special guests to Tuurangawaewae Marae. Rawerawe is also
responsible for much of the decorations of the waka tauaa and
the kaakahu worn by the crews.
“The things we do, we do all for love dear. We do these things
not because we have to, but because we want to. This is how
it has always been and how it will stay,” says Rawerawe.
Today the Herangi’s live in the former home of Te Puea, next
to the Waikato River at the bottom of Tuurangawaewae Marae.
They have vivid memories of the flooding that occurred in 1958
and 1998.
“The awa has a mind of its own and you have to respect our
tuupuna. I can remember from the first flooding all the whaanau
moving their belongings, helping each other. It was nothing
new to us because we were always working together at the
marae,” adds Rawerawe.
It was a “joyous occasion” she says, to see the awa returned to
Waikato-Tainui earlier this year, and she hopes it will one day
return to the natural beauty it was when she was a child.
Dedicated supporters of the Kiingitanga, Hikairo (78) is a gifted
carver and Rawerawe (79) a talented weaver. For many years,
they have contributed their time and skills to projects within
Waikato-Tainui and were last year recognised for this by Te
Waka Toi (Creative New Zealand), receiving the Taa Kiingi
Ihaka award for the lifetime contribution to the development
and retention of Maaori arts and culture.
“The many years I have been here I have seen plenty of changes
and the water is paruparu. I hope it will be clean for my moko,
so they know what it looked like when I was a child.”
Hikairo’s portfolio of work includes Auaukiterangi at Maketuu
Marae in Kawhia, restoration and conservation work at
Mahinaarangi and Raukawa at Tuurangawaewae Marae,
and collaboration with Ngaati Tuuwharetoa on Ngaa Manu
o Ruakapanga, the historic whare ruunanga at Puukawa in
“We do what we have to do. It is now the time of Kiingi Tuheitia
and we will support him as we have supported his mother, his
father, and as our tuupuna have supported the Kiingitanga
many generations before. Our children and our mokopuna will
continue this mahi long after we have gone.”
With their years of dedication and service to their marae, iwi and
hapuu unwavering, the Herangi whaanau remain committed to
continuing their mahi for many years to come.
These photos include whaanau of Tuurangawaewae Marae, taken during the 1958 flooding of the Waikato River. The images were captured by Hikairo's brother Darkie and form part of the Herangi whaanau collection.
Do you recognise anyone in the images? If you do, let us know!
Have you had a baby in the last 12 months?
Have you registered your pepi on the tribal register?
Register your pepi and be in the running to win a
“Pepi Pack” which features a specially designed
Tainui teenie tee, health and wellbeing information,
and resources carefully chosen for mum and baby.
“We are trying to encourage our whaanau to register
their tamariki, especially new pepi,” says Tribal
Registrations Officer Teeny Tukere. “We want to
encourage tribal members to register mokopuna
from birth. Registration provides benefit to our marae
in terms of the annual dividend they get, as well as
access to a range of initiatives and grants set up to
support our members.”
Every Waikato-Tainui pepi registered from 1 February
2009 onwards, who is under 6 months of age, will go
into a monthly draw. Winners will be notified directly.
Decisions are final. No correspondence will be
entered into.
For registration forms: Freephone 0800 104 412 or
visit our website www.tainui.co.nz.
Photo right: Master Matariki Te Whetu Heremaia (Ngaati Te Ata, Tahunakaitoto Marae) - age 5 months.
New and improved application forms for 2009 tertiary education grants will be available from 1 December
2009, by phoning our new Grants Officer Jackie Haggie on 0800 TAINUI, or download the forms direct
from the tribe’s website at www.tainui.co.nz.
Grants are also available for:
Te Reo; Maatauranga Maaori and Maatauranga Toi; Tribal Waananga; Health and Wellbeing initiatives;
and Kaumaatua medical.
For more information about grants, please contact:
Jackie on 0800 TAINUI or email jackieh@tainui.co.nz.
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TRIBAL REGISTER COMPETITION
The Tribal Register Unit is updating information on the tribal register.
Have you changed your postal address or do you have an email account?
Enter online now - www.tainui.co.nz
Win one of three sets of Tainui books
(Tawhiao – King or Prophet, Koroki – My King,
and Te Arikinui and the Millennium of Waikato)
An iPOD (classic 120GB)
A selection of Tainui t-shirts and caps
Enter your details online at www.tainui.co.nz/forms/competition.htm.
Competition closes 10 December 2008. Winners will be notified.
Whetu Simon, Waipapa Marae, has been
cleansing the data in our tribal register in an
aim to increase the accuracy of our records.
Changes have included:
• Identifying 1,119 deceased beneficiaries;
• Removing 2,125 “non-qualifying people”who did not whakapapa to a raupatu
Marae or hapuu;
• Removing duplicate entries;
• Cleaning address data - there are a total
of 29,239 NZ postal addresses, and 1,618
overseas addresses; and
• Correcting 1,920 records of name data.
The total number of validated tribal
members on the tribal register has reduced
from 56,348, to 52,666 members.
Database Administrator Whetu Simon updating tribal
records with Panekuhukuhu Muru.
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MARAE INSURANCE
A FOCUS FOR 2009
Two Marae surveys were conducted in 2006 and 2007,
and a common concern was the number of Marae
without insurance protection. Tribal Development Unit
(TDU) Manager Marae Tukere says traditionally Marae
have been perceived as an insurance risk.
“Insurance brokers have been reluctant to insure our Marae
sites because in some instances they are located at a
distance far from fire services, some buildings are regularly
unoccupied and maintained, and often the buildings are
constructed of substandard materials or workmanship. That
perception has led to high premiums for those with cover,
and high risk for those without.“
Ms Tukere says her unit has been working with Crombie
Lockwood Insurance Brokers for the past year, trying to find
a solution for Waikato-Tainui Marae. This included visiting
Marae and collecting a range of information. She said
Crombie Lockwood canvassed every insurance provider in
the country looking for an insurance package specifically for
Waikato-Tainui Marae.
Crombie Lockwood said “when no insurer in NZ was
interested,” they went off-shore, and Lloyds of London, one
of the oldest and most prestigious insurance companies in
the world, agreed to underwrite a Waikato-Tainui Marae
Insurance Package.
Marae Development Officer Eric Pene, says the concept (and
ultimate success) of the package, is dependent on support
and buy-in from individual Marae. He says “the concept is
based on whakakotahitanga whereby the big and small can
all benefit, and the success of the package relies on many, if
not all of our raupatu Marae joining.”
The Waikato-Tainui Marae Insurance Package 2009 proposal
will be available to Te Kauhanganui members at their general
meeting on November 30. It is intended the package will
then go to Marae Committees.
“This is an excellent opportunity for all our Marae,” said Mr
Pene, “with everyone reaping the benefits of competitive
premiums and excellent insurance cover.
“We really urge you to seriously consider this package.”
For more information please contact: Tribal Development
Unit on 0800 TAINUI or email: ericp@tainui.co.nz or maraet@
tainui.co.nz.
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19
By Kui Paki
Fred Graham makes me laugh. He’s a bit of a joker
and despite his recent 80th birthday, he’s still as sharp
as a tack.
“You’ve got to keep the mind active,” he tells me, tapping
his temple as he does so. “If this isn’t kept busy, that’s when
things go down hill.” I agree and hope my mental stamina is as
decisive as his. But it isn’t health or mental agility I’ve come to
see him about, it’s art. More specifically, his art.
The acclaimed sculptor has been a leading figure in the New
Zealand art scene for over forty years. Since his first solo
exhibition in 1966, his works can be found throughout the
country and abroad including commissioned works at the
Auckland High Court, Auckland Botanic Gardens, the National
Archives Building in Wellington, and several public libraries
and city squares.
Born in Arapuni in 1928, Fred (Ngaati Koroki Kahukura) was
one of a group of Maaori artists including Para Matchitt, Ralph
Hotere and Arnold Wilson, who headed the contemporary
Maaori art movement. These days he says he is “far more
content” to watch others like his son and fellow artist Brett
Graham, continue with the legacy he and his peers started
those many years ago.
“Art is in a constant state of change. Each generation brings
with them a new sense of direction, perception and purpose…
that is what art is,” he explains.
As a young man, the naturally gifted Fred excelled at both
sport and academia. His talents were a “combination of both
mum and dad” he says. The eldest of three, Fred remembers
his father Kiwa being “extremely gifted” when it came to the
arts, and describes mum Lena, who performed with Te Pou
o Mangatawhiri in the days of Te Puea, as a “real gun on the
sports field”.
“I recall one time where dad blacked out the entire bathroom
just so he could develop his own film. He was exceptionally
creative and I admired him. Mum was a fantastic sports
woman. She was extremely competitive and a natural when it
came to sport.”
At his home in Waiuku where he has lived with wife Norma
for some 20 years, Fred is entertaining two of his mokopuna.
The walls of his house are scattered with paintings and
various works of art. Whaanau photos take pride of place, with
graduation portraits of his three children Gary, Kathryn and
Brett proudly displayed on a wall of its own.
“You asked me, what’s my greatest work of art? I’d have to say
my three kids. I should also acknowledge Norma since she
helped me with that one a little bit,” laughs Fred, jeering his
wife to raise a reaction. It worked.
He speaks fondly of his youth. A head prefect at Hamilton
Technical College (now Fraser High School), Fred planned to
study engineering but a chance meeting with a friend saw him
take up teaching instead. “I won’t say too much except that I
saw teaching as an avenue which allowed me to keep playing
rugby,” explains the former Maaori All Black, a slight smirk on
his face apparent to see.
Fred trained as a national art specialist for the Department of
Education during the 1950s. He worked as an art teacher in
Northland, Bay of Plenty and Manawatu, eventually teaching
art to teachers themselves. One of his greatest regrets adds
Fred, was not teaching in the Waikato.
“At the time, I believe I was trying to cast my own shadow. As
Fred and wife Norma.
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my father was held in high regard back home, I wanted to be
recognised of my own accord. In that respect I sort of stayed
away but I do regret it and if given the chance, would do things
differently.”
His work has appeared in several exhibitions here and
overseas. In 1986 Fred visited Canada as part of an Artists
Exchange Programme and his work was included in ‘Te Waka
Toi: Contemporary Maori Art’ which toured the United States
in 1994. Internationally, Fred’s work can be seen at the New
Zealand High Commission in India; Nauru Airport Fiji; Burke
Museum in Seattle; and Port Alberni Quay in Canada.
Along with traditional materials such as wood and stone, Fred
also uses plastics and metals in much of his sculptures. Often,
his works will depict stories and traditions of Tainui.
“As an artist, it’s very important to me that my work reflects
my whakapapa. I will always relate any piece I am working on
back to our oral traditions and stories of our past. At the time I
started, most of my contemporaries were from Ngaati Porou,
so I felt a sense of obligation for my art to be about Tainui. I’m
bias, I’ll admit that.”
Working closely with his engineer Rex Erikson, he is often
commissioned for private and public collections.
One of his latest pieces includes a series of works about the
Waikato River.
“This collection is timely given the return of the awa. It starts from
the beginning, depicting the source of the river, acknowledging
the maunga Ruapehu, Tongariro and Taranaki, then flows into
a series of different sculptures, each reflecting a journey along
the river.”
He says he will continue with art “as long as I am able to”. It
isn’t a hobby; it’s a lot of hard work he admits. But with a mind
like his, it is something I am sure he will continue with for many
years to come.
“I’ll stop when I have to and am no longer able…or when
Norma says I have to.”
Always a joker.
Birds are also a central theme to many of Fred’s pieces,
symbolic representatives he says of “tangata whenua”.
Nicknamed the ‘Bird Man’ by good friend and artist Arnold
Wilson, I am anticipating a profound and poetic reason for his
affinity for birds; it seems that isn’t quite the case.
“I see birds as the original tangata whenua of the land. They
are free spirits and go anywhere they want at their desire.
I’ve often admired that about them. That’s really why I tend
to incorporate them into my work, not for some deep and
philosophical connection.”
Back at his home studio, Fred has five art projects underway.
Images of Fred’s Work.
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STREAM2SUMMIT
There was a sprinkling of rain and a bit of fog setting over the maunga, but the 288 metre climb to the summit of Taupiri was well
worth it, as it kicked off the start of Stream2Summit – a series of free guided walks throughout mountains in the Waikato, Bay of
Plenty, Hauraki, Taupo and Whanganui regions.
Fifty keen and enthusiastic climbers, ranging in age from 7 – 72 years, climbed to the summit and planted trees at the base of Taupiri.
A joint-venture between Sport Waikato and the Department of Conservation to promote Push Play, Stream2Summit featured guided
walks through other significant maunga including Karioi, Maungatautari and Pirongia.
The Taupiri climb, held in September, was supported by the Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust and included koorero from kaumaatua
about Taupiri and its cultural significance to Waikato-Tainui. Many on the climb were not of Maaori descent and it was encouraging
to share with them stories of the tribe, said Environmental Officer Julian Williams.
“If we can educate others as to why Taupiri is sacred to us, then we are taking steps to ensure the koorero and information to the
wider public is correct. The stories of our tuupuna are an integral part of our whakapapa and identity as a tribe.”
Surveying of the area, including weeding of dense shrubs and gorse, was undertaken prior to the climb by ‘the Lands Trust’,
DOC and members of the Huntly Conservation Corps. A collection of 15 different plant species were planted including Totara
(Podocarpus totara), Porokaiwhiri (Hedycarya arborea), Kawakawa (Macropiper excelsum), Matai (Prumnopitys taxifolia) and
Kohekohe (Dysoxylum spectabile).
“The physical and natural state of Taupiri is as important as its cultural significance, so I am eager to see more initiatives take place
in the future around planting and restoration of the native vegetation. The responsibility is on us to return Taupiri to the beauty she
once was,” said scientist Cheri Van Schravendijk.
“Pest control is a problem,” adds Cheri, “with goats, possums and the possibility of other rodents causing major damage to flora
and fauna.
“The lack of birdlife on the maunga is indicative of a potential infestation of rats in addition to what we already know have been
causing problems, particularly goats and possums. There will need to be long-term initiatives to see these come under control.”
Members from Taupiri Marae showed their green-fingers with a planting session of their own. They planted some 50 different trees
last month and a special planting is also planned in memory of Robert Maitland Sommerville (72), who sadly passed away during
the summit climb in September.
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Stream2Summit 2008
Mihingarangi Forbes
Campbell Live, TV3
23
With a name like Mihingarangi, you’d think it would be quite obvious the 35-year-old has a Maaori heritage. But
for those who don’t know her, the fair haired, fair skinned, green-eyed reporter is best known for her work with
Campbell Live on TV 3.
In this edition we caught up with ‘Mihi’ Forbes who has links into Ngaati Naho on her father’s side, to ask her to
give some insight into her chosen profession for those rangatahi who might be interested in following a career in
broadcasting and journalism.
Mihi Forbes - Campbell Live, TV3
Some might say you’re ‘cracking it in mainstream’. But in an
industry that teaches ‘if it bleeds it leads’ and ‘digs deeper’
to compel controversy, how exactly does one ‘crack it’ in
mainstream without neglecting cultural sensitivities?
I wouldn’t say ‘I’m cracking it in mainstream’, afterall e kore
te kumara i whakapahu i tona reka , hei aha...yes I guess I’m
doing okay and loving the job. Many get a taste of mainstream
and don’t like those teachings you spoke about. The question I
asked myself going into this industry was - am I a journalist or
am I Maaori first?
For me, I’m Maaori first and the teachings from my whaanau
place me in a position where I can make conscious decisions
about where I’m directing a story and where it’s heading. Am
I sensationalising that or compelling controversy rather than
achieving objectiveness? You’ve got to put yourself in check
and if you don’t know, then go and find out. It brasses me off
when reporters don’t realise they’re being culturally insensitive
and ignorant.
Really some journalists don’t care and they’re trained not to,
but for me...I take pride in staying true to myself and I won’t
crap on anyone for a story or to make my way to the top of
anything. I guess that’s it really - stay pono to yourself. . .
I was one of three interns chosen, Moko Tini was also one
of them. It was awesome and I was exposed to some of the
greatest orators and prominent Maaori speakers around.
To have had that opportunity to listen and learn from them,
particularly as someone who was not a native speaker, was
the best thing I could have asked for.
A few years later in 1996, I joined Aotearoa Television and
covered a whole range of roles – presenting, reporting,
producing, directing.
So yeah I don’t have any formal media qualifications but
have over 14 years work experience in the television
industry. I also worked for One News and 20/20 and
that experience has been instrumental in achieving the
position I have now. I love it, it’s great at Cambell Live.
Why did you decide to follow this career path?
I’ve always been a strong advocate for reporting Maaori issues
accurately, particularly in mainstream media. This is a a topic
I could go on and on about. How long have you got with me?
Probably because I’m nosey. I think if you are a person who
loves being the first to tell everyone something, or love breaking
good news and have a sense for it, then you’ve definitely got
good grounding to be in this type of mahi.
How did you start out?
I’m one of those people who, when told one of my whaanau
are hapuu or something, I’ll ring around and tell everyone else
first…I’d call that nosey or a gossip maybe?
I was fortunate to get most of my broadcast and journalism
training on the job. I’m a second language speaker and studied
24
te reo Maaori at WINTEC (formerly Waikato Polytechnic).
Couple of things: while I was there in 1993 I did a stint reading
the community news at Radio Tainui. That was probably my first
journalism job - some scribbles given to me on a piece of tatty
paper. Then when I turned 21, after a ‘mock’ class assignment
where I parodied Maaori reporter Hinerangi Goodman, I was
offered a job working at TVNZ as both a reporter and researcher
for Te Karere and Waka Huia.
Highlights of your career?
There have been many. My children - I have two daughters, Peeti Paerau (7) and Te
Ahipourewa (5). Both attend kura kaupapa and have been raised with te reo Maaori
as their first language. The retention of te reo is really important and ensuring my
babies know their language and are culturally well is paramount. So I’d say that’s part
of my career to make sure my children have that.
There’s the funny things - I’ve had to scale a wall in heels and
a skirt to avoid a dog; I’ve taken a friend to an interview and
got her to push my baby in the pram outside whilst I’ve got an
exclusive; I’ve met with gang members, bikies and rival youth
gangs. There are lots of highlights.
As a result the network broadcast 15 stories in te reo Maaori
across its news programmes including Sunrise, 3 News and
Nightline. It also broadcast sports promotions in te reo and
language initiatives during its weather breaks. They did and
continue to do a great deal with the network’s website too.
When I was starting out I beat all the other mainstream
journalists to get Michael Jackson to say a few words when he
toured NZ in 1997. I remember myself and my camerawoman
squeezing our way through the media frenzy. The crowd had
surrounded his limousine. His window was going up and I
pushed my way through and asked him if he had a message
for the indigenous children of New Zealand. His window came
down and he said “yes...tell them I love them”. What a buzz.
Those were the only words he spoke to the press during the
entire tour. Needless to say, a few journalists and networks
were somewhat irate that this little Maaori girl got Michael’s
only response.
It might seem minor but there was a time when even the
pronounciation of Maaori words was shocking and perhaps noone cared. There’s a huge drive to improve these things now.
The main highlight that comes to mind is covering Te Arikinui’s
tangi. It was such a beautiful tangi.
I remember sitting with John (from Campbell Live), going live to
air for the show and doing an interview about the tangi process
and explaining certain things that happen at a tangi.
To have been able to share that with the country and having
that sense of being Maaori, was a fantastic feeling.
In terms of making a difference, do you think you’ve made one
in your chosen industry?
I really hope I have. Especially for my Paakehaa counterparts.
Earlier this year, during Maaori Language Week, I took six
weeks off to concentrate solely on implementing Maaori
language projects within the network.
Anyway, the work paid off with TV3 taking home two awards
at the 2008 Maaori Language Week Awards, and for the fourth
year running, they won the television category for the use of
te reo in media, AND were one of two Supreme Awards that
were presented.
I loved initiating this kaupapa.
Have I made a difference? I think I have and it was great to
have the support of my colleagues and our network executives
who were really receptive to the ideas.
At the moment I’m also working on a blog, ‘Ngaa Taake Maaori’,
which will be up on the TV3 website so I’m really encouraged
by what we can do with this.
You asked me earlier why did I decide to follow this career path
- I think the other thing aside from being nosey, is you have to
be a good communicator...and I love to talk...
In any case, you need to be passionate about what you do.
This is a great industry to work in either Maaori or mainstream.
I say whatever it is you like doing, go for it!
Have we run out of time yet?
25
CLIMBING MOUNTAINS
Annie Doyle climbs mountains.
In fact she’s climbed four of the seven highest
mountains on the continent. And at nearly 50 years
of age, most would say she’s a bit of a legend...
“I completed my first really big climb at the age of 40, which
sounds old, but is actually perfect for mountain climbing. You
need years of mental toughness and dedication to get up big
mountains.”
And the list of big mountains she’s conquered is pretty
impressive and includes Africa’s Mt Kilimanjaro (5892m),
Russia’s Mt Elbrus (5600m), and Mt Aconcagua (7000m)
which is in Argentina, South America.
The second annual Iwi of Origin was held in Auckland
recently, with tribal members from Waikato-Tainui
amongst those who participated in the sporting
competition. Hosted by North Harbour Sport, Iwi of Origin
is an event established to engage urban Maaori through
sport, promoting participation and the development of
communities as well as celebrating tribal identity.
Over 300 people competed in sporting events including
netball, touch, golf and waka ama. Tribal members from
Makaurau, Puukaki, Te Puea and Whaataapaka Marae,
represented Waikato-Tainui, with whaanau from Ngaati
Paoa also joining the Tainui contingent.
“It was an awesome day enjoyed by all,” said Denise
Takinui (Te Aakitai, Puukaki Marae), a coordinator for
the Waikato-Tainui teams. “Once again we had the
largest contingent of iwi present and held Te Arikinui’s
flag with pride.”
26
“Reaching the summit is only half the journey. It’s a great
feeling arriving at the top, but often you don’t enjoy it as much
as you should because then you’ve got to turn around and
climb back down,” says Annie who also descends from Ngaati
Mahuta, Tuurangawaewae Marae.
Born and raised in Hamilton, Annie is now based in Australia
with her husband and two children. A self confessed adrenaline
junkie, she is in the throws of preparing for her next major climb
up Mt McKinley in Alaska, which at 6194m is the fifth of the
seven summits she has her sights set on.
“Mountain climbing requires discipline, stamina, stubborn
perseverance, camaraderie, and being able to continue when
you feel like rubbish.”
Annie says her most difficult climb so far has been Mt
Aconcagua, attempting the climb twice in 2000 and 2008.
The roopu finished first in three events taking home the
hikoi, mixed netball and golf trophies, and also gained
second place in the U19s Waka Ama, mixed and primary
netball sections.
“In 2000 I climbed with a terrible team, mostly males. They
just wanted to get to the top at all costs and consequently we
failed abysmally as a team. But going back to Aconcagua in
January this year was awesome. We acclimatised beautifully,
the weather gods were smiling, we had a fantastic team of
women, and I thought it was amazing summiting after having
to quit early last time.”
Denise said they were fortunate to have great support
from many nannies and papas who came to “manaaki
the pepi whilst their parents participated in the activities,”
and she acknowledged kaumaatua Hinengaru Rauwhero
(Ngaati Hauaa, Raukawa), William Rauwhero and
Maurice Wilson (Waikato, Waiohua) for the guidance.
Apart from cases of ‘mild altitude sickness’ and an unfortunate
gastro problem on Mt Kilimanjaro ‘that was more bad luck than
anything’, the 49 year old has had no serious injuries since
she took up climbing nine years ago. Her dedication means
she undertakes a rigorous training regime in preparation for
each climb.
“We look forward to 2009 and the opportunities that
events like these bring, such as representing our iwi,
rekindling relationships with our Waikato whaanaunga
and ngaa iwi o te motu.”
“I run three times a week (10kms), I trek a couple of times a
week with a 20kg pack on, and it usually involves distance and
stairs. I do two or three core training sessions each week, and
I rock-climb twice a week.”
Pictured above: Te Puea Marae participants.
Pictured: Annie Doyle
Through climbing Annie has helped raise funds for numerous
charities with much of the proceeds distributed to third world
countries. She also involves her family in climbs and has taken
both her children Matt (18 years) and Grace (16 years) on
various excursions.
“I took my daughter to Mt Kinabalu in Malaysia last year and
we summitted together, which was pretty special. She really
rose to the occasion. But it was actually quite nerve wrecking
for me having to worry about her on the mountain, but she was
great.”
With preparation going well, Annie will attempt the McKinley
climb in May of next year. Then she will tackle Mt Everest in
Nepal in 2011, and Mt Vinson in Antarctica in 2012.
Knowing that only 26 women in the world have done all seven
summits, has been a positive motivator for Annie and she looks
set to be the first Maaori woman to join these ranks.
“The fitter you are the better you’ll go, but there’s more
to mountain climbing than just fitness, it’s a way of life, it
permeates all you do, your lifestyle, your work ethic, it all ties
back to your passion.”
27
For 45 years Huhana Clark has lived in Wellington
and in that time she has seen many changes.
But as a kuia of taurahere roopu Waikato ki Roto o
Poneke, one thing has remained constant in her life.
“The Kiingitanga played a big part in the establishment
of our roopu. We need to be nourished in the Kiingitanga
to show our mokopuna why we started. This has and will
always be one of the reasons this roopu exists.”
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A matriarch of Waikato ki Roto o Poneke, Huhana Clark (Ngaati Tamainupo, Raakaunui Marae) is its most knowledgeable and
longest serving member. She grew up in Huntly but moved to Wellington in her early 20s. Every year the 65-year old grandmother
returns to the Waikato for Koroneihana. Every year she plans for the next. She doesn’t make it to all poukai, “that’s a lot of puutea
for me to travel from Poneke”, but makes sure she gets to the Poutu poukai in Shannon.
“I do these things because I grew up with Kiingitanga. It is who I am, but I know a lot of our whaanau here in Poneke haven’t had that.
Not because they don’t want to know, but because they weren’t raised with it. That’s why this roopu is here - to awhi our whaanau.”
Waikato ki Roto o Poneke was established in 1964 in the boning sheds of the Petone Freezing Works. Through a social network
of workers and their whaanau who mostly came from the Waikato, the group was formed to ensure the ties back home would
never be lost. “We had people like Matiu Whauwhau, Ina Te Uira, Apanui Watene, May Kingi, Te Kore Tuwhangai-Crown and
Duke Crown leading our roopu. They were the driving force in those early days,” said Huhana. “They’d meet regularly, often
for hui or waananga, but on occasion for fundraising events to support kaupapa back in the Waikato. We used to have the
Princess Carnival. It was like a debutante ball and the proceeds were to help with fundraising efforts for Kimiora, the dining hall at
Tuurangawaewae Marae. It was nice to have functions like that because people from home including the late Te Arikinui, would
come down to tautoko us,” adds Huhana.
She recalls the first Kiingitanga waananga held in July 1979 with greatest fondness, and remembers many waananga held
on Waikato-Tainui reo me oona tikanga. “It was 1981 and I remember Pumi Taituha was with us at the time. It was during this
waananga that he composed the waiata Maa Wai Raa.”
Today Huhana is still a member of the committee. Like so many others, she acknowledges that times have changed and there are
new challenges faced by rangatahi. “Our young ones are living in times much different from my days so we need to look at how
we can make it more feasible for them. It’s time for them to take the leadership.”
Despite meeting intermittently over the last five years, Secretary Awhimai Reynolds (Ngaati Maahanga, Te Papaorotu Marae) says
the new committee elected earlier this year, have set strategic goals to further strengthen the group’s foundations.
“A number of issues have been raised including identifying ways in which to better engage our rangatahi who have been brought
up in Poneke, away from our tribal hub. The fact that geographically we are removed from it isn’t necessarily the problem, but it is
a contributing factor. Development of the relationship between ourselves and our tribal administration, as well as regular on-going
communication, are all very important and imperative to our growth.”
Huhana agrees. “After so many years, I am proud to see our roopu still alive. We’ve had ups and downs but we must continue
with the path forward so it is now in the hands of our young people. Our maatauranga will be passed onto the next generation only
if we keep it alive. And that is why we are still here, to do just that.”
Pictured : Huhana Clark (Ngaati Tamainupo, Raakaunui Marae)
29
IT’S OFFICIAL
Waikato-Tainui has made it into the Guinness Book of World Records © for the largest
haka, setting a new world record of 3,264 participants.
Following months of processing and anticipation, officials from ‘Guinness’ have finally
sent confirmation that our attempt is now recognised, beating the previous record of 2,200
held by a group in Australia.
Hosted at the Hopuhopu Sports Complex on the 16th February 2008, “Toia Mai Te Waka”
was performed with a time of 5mins 31secs.
Aue hi, aue ha!
30
BANNER: From All Walks of Life
Pictured: Warren pictured with his model.
31
When he was 12 years old, Warren Dion Smith (Ngaati
Tamaoho) was cutting hair. Not in a salon, but in a small shed
at the back of Mangatangi Marae, south of Auckland. He’d
practise on a mannequin’s head “with its own hair too by the
way and one of my nannies would let me put it on her table”.
Eventually he started giving all the whaanau haircuts.
“I was cutting everyone’s hair; my cousins, aunties, uncles,
nannies – if they needed it cut, they’d get me to do it. The
Marae was kind of my first salon really and the whaanau were
my first clients. So I have to thank them for giving me my start
in the industry.”
Now at 34, the boy from Mangatangi has replaced the Marae’s
shed, for an upmarket salon in central Wellington and moved
on to be one of the country’s top stylists. Not that he’ll ever
admit to it though. “Gosh, I just love being creative so I’m
fortunate to be in a job where I’m able to express myself. And I
never treat clients as just a job. I was raised to respect people
and because the head is so tapu (sacred), I see cutting hair as
something that should be treated in the same manner.”
I’m going to do it and I don’t care how old or how late I am in
getting qualified.”
In 2006, he completed his National Certificate in Hairdressing
at Wellington Polytechnic and has been a guest lecturer on the
course. He also completed his assessor’s certificate through the
New Zealand Association of Registered Hairdressers, allowing
him to officiate as a judge at any sanctioned competitions in
New Zealand.
Despite this, Warren, whose whakapapa links to Waikato are
through the Edwards and Paki whaanau, believes his greatest
challenge still lies ahead of him.
Warren has lived in Wellington the last five years, working
as a senior stylist for Get Funkd, a chain of salons situated
throughout the region. His CV not only includes hairdressing,
but he’s also a makeup artist and counts photography and
painting amongst his passions.
“I moved here from Hamilton in 2003 to work as a makeup
artist on Peter Jackson’s movie King Kong. It was fantastic. I
spent a year on the set just retouching people’s makeup.”
Over the years Warren has collected several hairdressing
awards. He has received Waikato Senior and Junior hairdressing
accolades but more recently, has been Wellington’s overall
Mens top stylist (2007 and 2008), overall cutter (2008), and
has judged regional competitions in Taranaki, Palmerston
North and Nelson.
“I’ve been in these competitions for the last nine years, and
each year it’s different. There’s always someone or something
setting the stage so it keeps you on your toes. I wouldn’t say
I’m competitive but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t there to win.”
Warren has been involved with the fashion awards show Style
Pasifika, as Director of Styling in 2006, and an entrant in the
Pasifika Body Art section in 2007.
“The body is like another canvas but because of our curves
and texture of our skin, it can be a challenge to paint on.”
Considering Warren had no formal qualifications up until
three years ago, his resumé of achievements is all the more
impressive.
“I gained all my skills on the job which made me feel a little
whakamaa (shy) in the beginning but then I thought bugger it,
32
Photos: Models covered in bodypaint showcase Warren’s talent.
“I have been away for so long and although I grew up on the Marae, I
feel a sense of loss because I haven’t been emerged in things Maaori
for a while. I learnt so much from my nannies Millie (Paki-Edwards) and
Elizabeth (Edwards), and my poppa Joseph (Tangaturoto Edwards), that
the time now has come for me to reconnect.”
Some of his greatest supporters adds Warren, are his Paakehaa
colleagues. “They’ve been so supportive of my journey. Every morning
I go into work and will say small things in Maaori to them and my clients,
like ‘kia ora’ and ‘moorena’, just to make the environment more whaanau
like. It might not be major to others, but for me, knowing that they’re trying
to make an effort means a lot.”
Establishing his own company WDS Limited earlier this year, Warren is
excited about the future. “I’ve enrolled in Te Ataarangi, I’ve got the NZ
Hairdressing Awards coming up soon and I’m hoping to have a baby –
that’s a lot of goals really isn’t it. I also want to produce a documentary
and a behind-the-scenes exposé on the hair and makeup industry that
would just be fabulous.”
The time for Warren to reconnect to his Marae may happen sooner
than he thinks. “I thought I’d let you
know that I got a phonecall from my
uncle asking me to consider being
a rep on the tribe’s parliament Te
Kauhanganui. I’d love to do it. The
distance is a bit of a challenge but
we’ll have to wait and see...”
33
His voice is reminiscent of an old school crooner and his name is synonymous with love songs and ballads.
Leon Wharekura (Ngaati Whaawhaakia, Ngaati Mahuta, Te Kauri Marae) has been a stalwart of the New Zealand music scene for
over 10 years and recently released his debut album It’s A Love Thing.
The Hamilton born, Huntly raised singer began his career under the guidance of his famous uncles, Dalvanius Prime and Billy T
James. After three years as a backup singer and soloist for the Billy T James Show Band, Leon spent time working in both Australia
and China. During his time in China, the 37 year old taught music to children at the Tianjin Blind School, seeing it as an opportunity
to share his gift and passion with others.
From a musically gifted family, Leon’s album It’s A Love Thing is a collection of easy listening melodies, in Maaori and English, with
original compositions and some well known covers including the song Mum, made famous by Prince Tui Teka. The album also
features He Kawai Ariki, a song written by Leon’s cousin Hone Nuku Tarawhiti, with music composed by his late uncle Dalvanius.
“This song is dedicated to Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu. He (Dalvanius) composed it but when he got sick, uncle asked me to
continue with it and so I worked with the song, mixing in and putting my own spin on it.”
Why a career in music? Because I have loved music since I was a kid. Mum and Dad encouraged me to sing and participate in
anything musical; I guess they saw in me something that just came naturally. I always believed in doing something you love and
being able to make a living from it.
What have been the highs and lows of your career so far? No lows really. Stacks of highs like meeting loads of interesting people,
travelling around the world, learning about different countries and cultures. In the early days I would question if I could hang in this
industry but I was determined to survive and make it work.
What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learnt about the music industry? This is a people business as much as a music business. Talent is
20% of the formula and attitude is 80%. No attitude, no altitude. I don’t mean attitude in a bad way. It’s about constantly working towards
what you want for your life without losing yourself along the way. It also pays to be a nice person, and knowing the difference between
ego and confidence is very important.
Any upcoming music projects that you’re working on? A tour to promote It’s a Love Thing. Shooting a video for one of my tracks.
Working on a song for Tribal Pride 09 with other artists from Waikato Tainui. Facilitating our second STEPS TO SUCCESS music
seminars - check out www.okareentertainment.co.nz for more info.
What music are you listening to at the moment? I’m enjoying RnB artists like Ne Yo and Rihanna. I also love Katchafire’s latest
album. Ruia has some cool tracks as well. When I want to chill, Whirimako’s CDs are always close by.
Tell us something nobody knows about you? I am pretty good at cooking Chinese food. Not takeaway stuff but the real thing. When
I lived in China, my Chinese friends would teach me how to make different dishes from their regions.
What’s your favourite waiata of all time? Too many to name but off the top of my head Luther Vandross’ version of A House Is Not
A Home.
If you could collaborate with any musician living or dead, who would it be and why? Living – Whirimako Black. I think our voices
would work well together in a duet. Past – my father and mother. I wish we could have recorded something together. We always
used to sing three-part harmony when I was growing up.
What would be your best advice for anyone wanting to have a career in music? Get clear about your goals. Visualise what your
music career looks like and start taking action that will bring you closer to it. Keep focused by building a network of people who have
similar interests so you can support each other through the ups and downs which will surely come. Leverage your talents by using
the internet to promote your music to potential markets.
Always carry business cards and always try to give the best gig you can. You never know who is out there watching - maybe your
next client. That’s how I got to China!!
Pictured: Leon Wharekura
34
With her music being described as “pure Aotearoa soul”, Nat
Rose has the reputation and experience that places her as one
of New Zealand’s leading soulful divas.
Nat’s debut album Golden Hour was released earlier this year
and is a smooth, melodic collection that reflects her distinct
Maaori heritage.
Although she grew up with her Ngaati Porou whaanaunga, Nat
has links to Ngaati Mamoe, Ngaati Tuuwharetoa, Te Whaanau
a Apanui, Ngaati Kahungunu and Waikato-Tainui. Born in
Invercargill but raised in Auckland and Ruatoria, Nat’s maternal
grandmother Wara Hakopa (nee Tawha), was of Ngaati Mahuta
descent and grew up around Waahi Paa in Huntly.
“I was raised with my whaanau from Ngaati Mamoe and
Ngaati Porou, but I’ve always known my links to Waikato. My
grandparents and my parents were very tuturu and made sure
those values were instilled in us from a young age,” explains
Nat, who loves diving for “all sorts of kaimoana” when she’s not
making music.
“I recently went to see my mum about my Tainui whakapapa and
ties, to reinforce what I already knew and to make sure I had it
right in my head. In saying that though, I don’t feel a sense of
loss but an urge to know more about it and I’m cool with that.”
Nat started her music career with a stint in Japan performing
with a kapa haka roopu when she was 18. By her early 20s
she was touring with Aotearoa hip hop pioneers Upper Hutt
Posse. In 1999, she completed a Diploma in Contemporary
Music Performance at the Music and Audio Institute of New
Zealand (MAINZ) and has sung backing vocals for many New
Zealand music icons including Hollie Smith and Ladi 6.
“Music was all around me when I was younger. My family are
all pretty talented and gifted musicians on both sides. I’ll be
looking to put them on my next album – all for aroha of course,”
laughs Nat.
Collaborating with close friends and producers such as Leon
Davies (Katchafire) and the late Phil Fuemana, Golden Hour
is a timeless and soft masterpiece with dedicated tracks like
Reporua and Peachy Pooh proving Nat’s sultry vocals are
deserving of an audience.
“I want my music to be exposed to everyone. I want people
to take from it a sense of who I am and what Nat Rose is all
about, so for sure man, if I can get stage time I’ll take it. I’ve
performed at Koroneihana in the past and love the fact that I
can come back and perform to my whaanaunga in Waikato.”
With two young boys, Tuhia i te Rangi (11) and Rawiri (1), the
34 year old says the journey to produce her first solo album
had its “difficult moments”, but the devoted musician remains
focused as she concentrates on her career.
“We’re hopefully going to produce a video for one of the tracks
off the album but funding is an issue at the moment so it’s a
work in progress. Like all things you re-evaluate what’s possible
and what’s not and I’m taking it one step at a time.”
Golden Hour is out now, for more details check out www.
amplifier.co.nz or www.myspace.com/natrosemusic.
Pictured Above: Nat Rose
35
Marae Seminars to kick off in 2009
The success of Marae Information Seminars held in 2007 and 2008, will continue in 2009 with a new series of five
seminars planned.
Seminars are open to all Waikato-Tainui Marae, are free to attend, and will cover the following topics:
•
Accessing Funding
•
Marae Charters
•
Project Management
•
Implementing Project Management Tools
•
Financial Tips and access to Governance and Management.
Dates are still to be confirmed. To find out more information, or to register your interest, please contact:
Eric Pene, Tribal Development Unit, freephone: 0800 TAINUI or email: ericp@tainui.co.nz.
Free Home Ownership Education Programmes
Huakina Development Trust offer Home Ownership Programmes to whaanau from Ngaaruawaahia to Manukau.
Programmes also offer information for whaanau wishing to build on Maaori land.
Upcoming Programme Dates
4 December 2008 16 December 2008
9.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. Papakura
9.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. Waiuku
For further details please contact: Rangita Wilson, Housing Manager Huakina Development Trust, phone (0508)
438474, or email rangita@huakina.co.nz.
Waikato–Tainui Knowledge Advisory Group (TKAG)
The Tribal Development Unit is currently looking for expressions of interest to set up a Tribal Knowledge Advisory Group.
Are you:
Do you:
•
•
•
•
18 years or older?
A tribal member registered on the Waikato-Tainui tribal register?
Interested in contributing to tribal development in the area of maatauranga?
Possess knowledge and skills pertaining to Waikato–Tainui maatauranga?
For an expression of interest pack, call 0800 TAINUI and ask to speak to a member of the Tribal Development Unit, or
download the information from www.tainui.co.nz
To Whaanau from Te Puuaha o Waikato
Whaanau from Sydney will be heading to Brisbane in Easter 2009 to compete in Rugby League, Netball, 8 Ball,
Bowls, Touch, kids activities and more.
If you want to be part of this event, the planning committee meets on the last Saturday of each month. Please
contact: Warren Katipa (040) 7957 627 or email wkatipa@hotmail.com for more details.
for your kete...
36
Tainui Waka Primary Kapa Haka
NON AGGREGATE SECTION
WAIATA TIRA 1st Place
Maeroa
2nd Place
Te Ara Maurea o te Huinga Taniwha
3rd Equal
Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Pititikawa / Noera
KAITATAKI TANE
1st Place
Maeroa
2nd Equal
Te Ara Maurea / Rakaumangamanga
3rd Place
Kaokaoroa o Patetere
KAKAHU 1st Equal
Te Ara Maurea/Rakaumangamanga
2nd Equal
Kaokaoroa o Patetere/Maeroa/Noera
3rd Place
Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Te Rau Aroha
ORIGINALITY
1st Place
Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga
2nd Equal
Maeroa / Te Ara Maurea
3rd Place
Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Pititikawa
KAITATAKI WAHINE 1st PlaceRakaumangamanga
2nd Place
Maeroa
3rd Place
Te Ara Maurea o te Huinga Taniwha
AGGREGATE SECTION
WHAKAEKE 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga
2nd Place
Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Noera/Te Ara Maurea
3rd Place Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Pititikawa/Maeroa
WHAKAWATEA
1st EqualRakaumanga / Noera
2nd Place
Maeroa
3rd Equal
Te Ara Maurea / Pititikawa
WAIATA KOROUA 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga
2nd Equal Te Rau Aroha / Noera
3rd Place Te Ara Maurea o te Huinga Taniwha
TE REO MAORI
1st Place
2nd Equal
Te Ara Maurea / Noera
3rd Place
Te Rau Aroha
WAIATA A RINGA 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga
2nd Place Te Ara Maurea
3rd Place Maeroa
POI 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga
2nd Place Maeroa
3rd Place Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Noera
HAKA
1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga
2nd Place Maeroa
3rd Place Kaokaoroa o Patetere
OVERALL WINNERS & TAINUI WAKA REPRESENTATIVES
FOR 2008
1st Place
2nd Place
Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Noera
3rd Place
Te Ara Maurea
Pictured above: Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga
37
Cliff Rapira admits he gets a little nervous when watching his sons Sam and Steve play league. “Before a game I’m always a little
bit anxious for them. There can be a bit of pressure on the boys, especially if it’s a playoff so my nerves do at times get the better of
me, like any parent would I guess.”
Last month, Cliff, wife Liz and daughter Claire (16yrs pictured above with her brothers), all flew to Australia to cheer on the boys as
they took the field for their respective teams – Sam (21) for the Vodafone Warriors and Stevie (19) for the U20 Junior Warriors.
Despite the Vodafone Warriors losing the grand final qualifier with a 32-6 loss to Manly, and the juniors being pipped in the dying
seconds to Brisbane 28-26, Cliff says he couldn’t be prouder of the pair.
“Myself, Liz and Claire are 100% behind the boys. We’ve always been proud of them and what they’ve achieved so far. They’ve
made the decision to make careers for themselves as professional league players, so we support them in everything they do.”
The dynamic duo started their league careers playing under 5s for Hamilton club Hukanui. A league player himself, Cliff (Ngaati
Amaru, Te Awamaarahi Marae) remembers the boys tagging along to games and mucking in with the other children.
“They’d get in there with the other kids, tackle and throw the ball around. We never pushed the boys into pursuing league it just
happened to be that I played and they naturally followed.”
Whilst students at Hamilton Boys High School, the boys also played rugby. But it was league that they eventually concentrated on.
Today, Sam and Steve are both big, burly, barnstorming forwards. And the brothers are very supportive of each other adds Cliff.
“They give each other pointers about their games. Sammie is older and has been playing longer so he shares his knowledge and
experience in the premiere grade with his brother. Stevie is the more competitive of them but that’s because he’s suffered a lot more
injuries this season and wants to get at the top of his game. At the end of the day, they’re brothers so they’re definitely looking out
for one another.”
At 184cm and 105kg, Sam made his National Rugby League debut for the Warriors against Wests Tigers in May 2006. Set to take
the leading prop position left behind by league legend Reuben Wiki, Sam has scored 28 ‘NRL’ points this season and has made 63
NRL appearances. Making his debut for the Kiwis last year, he was named in the NZ squad to train for this year’s Rugby League
World Cup. He has also played for NZ A, NZ Residents and the Junior Kiwis.
Photo Above: Sam (left) and Steve (right) with sister Claire. Photo Top Right: Sam and Steve. Photo Bottom Right: Sam and Steve with the Hukanui Under 7’s.
38
MARAMATAKA
NOVEMBER / NOEMA 2008
28Kaumaatua Luncheon
29Te Kauhanganui Meeting
29Hura Koowhatu o Ngahinaturae
Te Uira
30Induction Hui for New
Te Kauhanganui Representatives
DECEMBER / TIIHEMA 2008
06Waikare Poukai
14Reretewhioi Poukai
19WRTCL Offices Close
Steve who turns 20 next month, played second row for the
Junior Warriors in the inaugural Toyota Cup. Yet to make
his first grade debut, Steve is a former Waicoa Bay Stallion
(Bartercard) and played for the NZ U16s in 2004 and 2005
- the same year Sam captained the team. The 94kg forward
recently signed a two-year contract with the North Queensland
Cowboys, where if he hasn’t already, he will start pre-season
training before Christmas.
The idea of the boys potentially meeting in the coming season
could prove testing for the whaanau says Cliff, with support
torn between the Warriors and the Cowboys. “It’s going to be
tough alright. We will support them both but it’ll be really hard
to pick one over the other. I’ll have to make a special jersey I
think, one half the Warriors for Sammie and the other Cowboys
for Stevie, that way I’m covered.”
JANUARY / HAANUERE 2009
05WRTCL Offices Open
24Tribal Pride Concert
TE HOOKIOI
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The Editor - TE HOOKIOI
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ISSN 1173-7530
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whole without the permission of the publisher. Neither the Waikato Raupatu
Lands Trust (including agents and subsidary groups) nor individual writers
accept any responsibility or liability for anything done or not done by any person
in reliance, whether wholly or partially, on any of the contents of this publication.
Note: Opinions expressed may not necessarily reflect the policy or views of the
Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust (including agents and subsidary groups).
39
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OLD TAUPIRI ROAD - HOPUHOPU SPORTS COMPLEX - NGAARUAWAAHIA
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Issue 27 - Waikato

Transcription

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