Proud to support Taikura Kapa Haka 2025
Taikura 2025 was held over the weekend at Te Papa in Wellington involving over 600 kuia and koroua performing on stage over two days, and it was spectacular.
Taikura Kapa Haka is an annual festival bringing together kaumātua from regional and marae-based rōpū across the motu, in celebration of their rich mātauranga and pūkenga, to perform in front of friends, whānau and haka fans.
“You don’t have to be the loudest but definitely the proudest,” said John Tapene, Te Rarawa, Waimiha.
Shay King, Ngāti Ruanui, Ngā Rauru, Ngā Ruahinerangi said “It’s all about our pāhake, those that are here now and those that have passed on and the next generation or the next reanga, so they can look and think actually I wanna do that.”
“It lifts you up,” said Bill Nathan, Te Āti Awa, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāi Tahu. “You think of those passed that brought you to the stage and being able to perform to others. It’s your obligation to now pass this on to others.”
Earlier in the year Te Manahautū Carl Ross met with Te Papa Director Ngā Manu Atarau, Carolyn Roberts-Thompson, and colleagues to discuss potential future partnerships, and Te Matatini was pleased to partner with Te Papa and other key supporters to deliver Taikura Kapa Haka festival 2025.
“It is a real honour to be able to support so many kaumātua take part in the festival,” says Carl.
“It’s proven that participation in kapa haka promotes physical and mental wellbeing, while the social connections and cultural pride enhances mental health and emotional resilience.
“The Taikura festival invigorates our kaumatua and gives whānau an opportunity to support and celebrate their nannies and koros performing on stage.”