September 08, 2021
Pita Sharples’ kapa haka contribution earns award
Former politician, educator and kapa haka exponent Tā Pita Sharples is to receive the Te Tohu Kaitiaki Tikanga Pūoru – Keeper of Tradition award at this year’s Waiata Māori Awards.
The award recognises Tā Pita’s lifelong contribution to the retention and promotion of traditional waiata, through not only education but also in his role establishing Tāmaki based kapa haka Te Roopū Manutaki in 1968.
Awards director Ellison Huata says for more than half a century the former Ngāti Kahungunu chair has provided young urban Māori a haven to celebrate cultural identity.
Singer Che Fu will receive this year’s Te Tohu o te Ahumahi Pūoru – Music Industry Award which celebrates success and contribution to music.
The Supergroove member found solo fame after featuring on DLT’s production of the chart-topping Chains, and his first three albums received platinum and gold sales and produced hits that have become entrenched into New Zealand song history.
Che Fu has Tainui and Ngāti Raukawa whakapapa from his mother Miriama Rauhihi Ness’ side and Niue connections from his father Tigilau Ness.
Because of Covid restrictions the awards ceremony will be run online from Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts & Events Centre at the later date of October 9.