One of the country’s oldest kapa haka regionals has once again taken centre stage, with Tamararo in Tairāwhiti drawing crowds, talent, and powerful performances that reflect the strength of te ao Māori.
Hāti Nāti supporter and Te Pāti Māori candidate Hayley Maxwell says the event was a celebration of culture, identity, and intergenerational excellence.
“The highlight for me was seeing the depth of talent across all the rōpū – the passion, the precision, and the pride in who we are as Māori,” she says.
Tamararo featured a strong lineup of kapa haka groups from across the region, each bringing their own unique style, kaupapa, and whakapapa to the stage. The competition continues to grow in stature, showcasing both seasoned performers and emerging talent.
Maxwell says the event is a clear sign of the health of te ao Māori.
“When you see our rangatahi standing strong in their reo, their tikanga, and their identity – you know our culture is thriving.”
Beyond the competition, Tamararo remains a space for whānau and communities to come together, reinforcing connections and celebrating shared heritage.
While judges had the difficult task of selecting official winners, Maxwell says every group brought something special.
“For me, the real winners are our people – our tamariki, our rangatahi, our kaumātua – all carrying the kaupapa forward.”
For Radio Waatea, Tamararo is more than a competition – it’s a powerful expression of cultural resilience, unity, and the enduring strength of kapa haka in Aotearoa.
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