May 04, 2023
Music unlocking rangatahi potential in Ngāti Rangi
Ruapehu iwi Ngāti Rangi is using music to unlock the potential of rangatahi.
Organiser Caleb Lucas says the Ohakune-based programme Te Pikomata explores different aspects of the music industry.
He says the big driver is curiosity, and once rangatahi see their cuzzies get involved they will join in and start taking on roles, whether it be songwriting, producing or even producing TikTok pages to promote the work.
They also took part in February’s Kotahitanga Festival in Taumaranui and saw something of the mahi required to put on an event.
“The highlight for me is seeing the progression in their confidence, in them being able to stand among people and be them, to be unapologetically Māori anywhere they stand,” Mr Lucas says.