February 08, 2017
Twins support Poi E Berlinale screening
Poi E: The Story of Our Song is to have its international premiere at this month's Berlin Film Festival, with director Tearepa Kahi and Patea Maori Club members Bib and Bub in attendance.
That's twins Patricia (Bib) Ngarewa and Pauline (Bub) Prime, with their grandson Tuteri Rangihaeata going along to carry their bags.
He says the small south Taranaki town has got a huge charge out of the movie about the te reo Maori song that topped the charts in 1984.
The film has made $1.2 million so far at the box office, making it one of the most successful New Zealand documentaries.
It has also revived interest in the Patea Maori Club, with invitations coming in to perform around the motu.
"I grew up travelling on the buses as a young kid. My nieces and many of the young cousins are doing the same so you have to take your hat off to our parents and the community and the current tutors, Andy and Janine Maruera and obviously the club members who are supporting them in 2017," Mr Rangihaeata says.
Coinciding with its Berlinale showing, the DVD version of Poi E will be released in New Zealand on February 15 by Sony Home Entertainment.
FULL INTERVIEW WITH TUTERI RANGIHAEATA
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