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March 08, 2026
#national: A Mighty Voice of Pacific Reggae Falls Silent: Radio Waatea Pays Tribute to Dilworth Karaka
Matthew Tukaki
Posted On March 8, 2026
Radio Waatea joins the nation in mourning the passing of Dilworth Karaka, the founding member and longtime frontman of the iconic Aotearoa band Herbs – a musician whose voice, guitar, and conviction helped shape the sound and spirit of a generation.
Karaka’s whānau confirmed his passing this week, marking the end of a remarkable life devoted to music, kaupapa and community. Born in 1950, Karaka went on to co-found Herbs in Auckland in 1979 alongside Toni Fonoti, Spencer Fusimalohi and Fred Faleauto. Over the next four decades he remained the constant heartbeat of the band, serving as lead singer and guitarist while guiding Herbs through its many evolutions.
For many across Aotearoa and the wider Pacific, Herbs were far more than a band. They were a voice of protest, pride and identity – blending reggae with Māori and Pacific musical influences to create what would become known as the Pacific reggae sound. Their music spoke to struggles for justice, racial equality, nuclear-free aspirations and the dignity of Pacific peoples.
Through songs like French Letter, Sensitive to a Smile and the timeless collaboration Slice of Heaven with Dave Dobbyn, Karaka helped deliver music that crossed generations and cultural boundaries. The band’s influence was so profound that Herbs was inducted into the New Zealand Music Hall of Fame in 2012, recognising their enduring contribution to the country’s cultural and political landscape.
Behind the music was a man shaped by working-class Auckland. Karaka spent years working on the waterfront before dedicating himself fully to music, carrying with him the stories and struggles of ordinary people. Those experiences gave authenticity to the songs he helped create – songs described as both “music for the soul” and messages for the head.
Herbs’ music also grew from activism. Emerging during the turbulent years of Bastion Point and the Springbok Tour protests, the band became closely associated with movements for justice across Aotearoa and the Pacific. Their songs became anthems for peace, solidarity and cultural pride.
Even as the decades passed, Karaka remained committed to the kaupapa, continuing to perform and share the music that helped define a generation.
News of his passing has prompted an outpouring of grief and gratitude across the country – from musicians, activists and fans who grew up with the sound of Herbs echoing through homes, marae and community gatherings.
Karaka will lie in state at Ōrākei Marae, before being taken to Whaatapaka Marae, where he will be laid to rest among his people.
For Radio Waatea and for many across te ao Māori and the Pacific, Dilworth Karaka’s legacy is not measured only in awards or chart success. It is measured in the generations who found their voice through his music.
Today we remember a man whose songs carried the stories of our people – songs of freedom, unity and aroha.
Moe mai rā e te rangatira.
Rest in peace, Dilworth Karaka.
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