New report ‘Aroha Noa ki te Ao’ explores healing through kapa haka

The report collates insights and experiences shared by members of Aroha Noa, a non-competitive rōpū kapa haka who came together only three weeks before standing on stage at the Whakataetae Kapa Haka a Rohe ki Tāmaki Makaurau in 2024.

Aroha Noa is affiliated with Grace Foundation and comprises members from diverse backgrounds with most having experienced disconnection from te ao Māori, systemic and material hardship, and an array of personal traumas. 

“Te Matatini has had a relationship with Grace Foundation for about 14 months as we both see how kapa haka experiences can contribute to the overall health and social wellbeing of whānau,” says Carl Ross, Te Matatini Te Manahautū | Chief Executive.

“We strive to enable anyone from kōhanga to kaumātua to participate in kapa haka, no matter their age, capability or background. Many Aroha Noa members had never done kapa haka and others hadn’t performed since their school days.”

The report was written by Associate Professor Jani Wilson, Aotahi | University of Canterbury, and Kerrie-Anna Tana, Te Matatini Pou Takawaenga for Waitaha, with support from Kate MacDonald, Te Matatini Kaitohutohu Mātāmua | Senior Advisor. 

The Aroha Noa members who participated in the research openly shared their lived experiences, personal transformation, cultural reclamation, and whānau resilience. Participants spoke of their personal disconnection with te ao Māori and harbouring the shame of being Māori before standing together. 

“We know that performing kapa haka together fosters unity, mutual support and a strong sense of belonging. It also promotes learning and understanding of te ao Māori, and its traditional practices and values, as it enriches cultural knowledge and fosters a deep appreciation of Māori culture across generations.”

After performing many said the earlier feelings were replaced with a strong sense of pride and a desire to learn te reo to lead their whānau - demonstrable of how ‘haka heals’. 

Read the full report(external link) on the Te Matatini website. Watch the Grace Foundation Aroha Noa at Kapa Haka Regionals 2024 video - here(external link). Watch the reaction reel - here(external link).

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Media contact: Lyn Harrison, 027 245 2477.