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September 03, 2012
Timoti Karetu wins supreme Waka Toi award
Waatea Team
Posted On September 3, 2012
Kaumatua who have worked tireless to uphold Maori language and culture have been celebrated at the annual Te Waka Toi Awards.
The supreme award, Te Tohu Aroha mo Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu, went to Professor Timoti Karetu from Ngati Kahungunu and Ngai Tuhoe.
Judges said the former Maori language commissioner and Kohanga Reo National Trust chair is synonymous with language excellence.
He also is a giant in kapa haka and administrator, performer, tutor and judge.
Te Tohu Aroha mo Ngoi Kumeroa Pewhairangi for strengthening the Maori language went to Waikato University professor Pou Temara.
He’s elated by the recognition, after supporting so many other award recipients over the years.
He says after a teaching career spanning more than 35 years he sees the award as a great honour.
Kingi Ihaka awards for lifetimes of service to Maori arts went to Esther Jessop, who founded London-based Ngati Ranana, martial arts expert Mita Mohi, Whakatohea.
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