Gosh it seems like forever since the last post. So here goes, Im back in the driving seat and Im ready to blog like crazy. First, changes for our little family....................... We are now a big family, a family of 8 6-kids 2-parents and a partridge in a pear tree! We have moved from the USA to Sydney, Australia and now we live Hawkes Bay, New Zealand! Awesome!!!!!!!!!!!! I know right?! So Im starting with todays exciting news Ngati Kahungunu, which is my Maori tribe is playing host to the Nations, International Maori Culture Competitions, Its an all weekend Shindig and was kicking off the half week long festivities today with an amazing Powhiri( Traditional welcoming Ceremony).
The beautiful colour scheme they chose reminded me of the Paua shell colours (known as the Abalone). I was so gutted that I couldn't attend this wonderful event and take part in the rare opportunity to be a part of the Rope. It has taken them a couple of years, many countless hours to put together this Powhiri. I loved that they allowed so many to take part in each of the different aspects of Powhiri, whilst upholding Tikanga, I could feel the Mana (Spiritual Power) and Ihi (Power/Force, like in Stars war "May the force be with you") while watching it from the comforts of home, and I tell you I was beaming with pride, to be MAORI, and Im sure that all the whanau (family) that were participating felt it 1000 times over.
https://www.maoritelevision.com/news/regional/kahungunu-pohiri-wows-motu
The Competitions showcase the best of the best Kapahaka Roopu in the whole country plus Australia as they Haka it out on the Stage to see who is Best! We will hear some unique Maori waiata (songs) and perhaps some revamped oldies. The Groups Practise for the competitions years in advance, and have their own Kaitito (Composers) or Kaituhi(writer) writing them new Haka, Whakawaatea, Waiata, Poi, Whakaeke, Oriori and so on, they make costumes and give up a lot of time to practise and you can see it in the quality of their performances. The judges have a tough job on their hands. My Uncle Ashley Puriri is the MC or Presenter for the event, and it is presented Bilingually though mostly in Maori.
I just couldn't end the day without blogging and journaling it! Lastly an amazing event always has Volunteers, Glad my Son and Husband are going along to lend a hand. Lastly hope everyone enjoys themselves, learn something new,meet up with old peeps or meet new ones, eat some awesome kai and dont forget your sunglasses, Potae (hat) and (Kiremi) sunscreen. Go hard nga Roopu Kapahaka o te whakataetae 2017. Ka mau te Wehi! #matatini #maori #kapahaka #Ngati Kahungunu #matatini2017
