The compiler of a collection of waiata from the Maramatanga movement for use in Kura and schools says they contain some timeless lessons.
Che Wilson says his tupuna Te Mareikura Hori Enoka was a prolific writer, and his manuscripts include more than 4000 pao and hundreds of waiata.
Along with his cousin Tahupotiki Wiremu Ratana, the Ohakune-based leader was influenced by Rangitikei prophetess Mere Rikiriki in coming up with a message that melded Māori spiritual beliefs with the Catholic faith of its adherents.
Mr Wilson says many of the waiata are widely known, even if people don’t know their origins.
"Aue te Aroha which has been made famous by the like of Hato Hohepa, St Jospeh's, Ko Te Rite as well, Queen Victoria, Sonny Abraham got permission from my koro to be able to use Kiko and that became a famous poi," he says.
Che Wilson worked with te reo Māori education resource developer TupuOra to come up with the book and audio recordings of 21 of the waiata.
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