Kapa Haka

On November 8th, the Balmacewen Kapa Haka was invited to Āraiteuru Marae for the end of year Community Pōwhiri. We stood with Mana Whenua to welcome manuhiri with haka and waiata. Nevaan led a strong haka pōwhiri in the wharenui. After the formal welcome, lunch was served and we performed several waiata in the whare kai. The singing was amazing! Our first waiata was “Āraiteuru” and we were surprised to find out afterwards that the kaitito / composer of that song was there listening! Following the singing, we got to enjoy a delicious meal.

On Thursday November 20th we performed at a special ceremony for the installation of a new gate, waharoa, defining the entrance to Āraiteuru Marae from Bishop’s Court. Our Kapa Haka tutor, Che Arekateratera was one of the five carvers. Te ingoa o te waharoa hou i “Ka mua ka muri”.