Te Hookioi Issue 27

E RERE ATU NA

SPECIAL EDITION: ISSUE 27 - NOVEMBER 2008

Whiringa-aa-rangi

Squamish First Nation, A marriage made in the Waikato, Artist Fred Graham

Junior Feature Writer Maaori Issues Category

Qiane corfield-matata

Te Aakitai/Te Ahiwaru, Makaurau Marae - Ihumaatao journalist/photographer - mana magazine "I’m a natural communicator. I love to talk, talk, talk!

"We need more of our rangatahi looking at careers in the media. Every day is different. One day I could be interviewing a kuia, and the next day I’m doing a photo shoot with a famous musician.

“It’s a great industry to be in and I get to tell our stories and showcase our people to the world."

Photo by Len Hetet

19 05 A Deed of Settlement 08 MOU with Squamish 09 Koroneihana 2008 12 Te Puna Kai Exhibition 13 A marriage made in the Waikato - Herangi whaanau 16 Competitions and Grants 18 Marae Insurance Package 2009 19 Fred Graham - he’s a bit of a joker 22 Stream2Summit 24 Mihi Forbes - Campbell Live 26 Climbing Mountains - Annie Doyle 28 Waikato ki roto o Poneke 31 Warren Dion Smith - a cut above the rest 34 Leon Wharekura and Nat Rose 38 Brothers - Warriors in Arms 39 Maramataka

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Cover: Korotangi Korotangi - the sacred talisman that accompanied the Tainui waka from Hawaiiki to Aotearoa in the 13th Century.

The Crown returned Korotangi to WaikatoTainui in 1995 as part of the tribe’s Waikato Raupatu Settlement.

On this month’s cover, Korotangi bares witness to the signing of the Waikato River Claim Deed of Settlement 2008.

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Ka maatakitaki iho au ki te riu o Waikato Anoo nei he kapo kau ake maaku Ki te kapu o taku ringa Ka whakamiri noa I toona aratau E tia nei he tupu pua hou Kia hiwa ake te Tihi o Pirongia Inaa he toronga whakaruruhau moona Ki tooku tauaawhirotanga Anaa! Te ngoto o toona ngaawhaa I oona uma kiihai I aarikarika A Maungatautari, a Maungaakawa Ooku puke maunga, ngaa taonga tuku iho.

Hoki ake nei au ki tooku awa koiora me oona pikonga He kura tangihia o te mataamuri E whakawhiti atu ai I te koopu mania o Kirikiriroa Me oona maara kai, te ngaawhaa whakatupu ake o te whenua momona Hei kawe ki Ngaaruawaahia, te huinga o te tangata Araa, te pae haumako hei okiokinga moo taku uupoko Hei tirohanga atu maa raro I ngaa huuhaa o Taupiri Kei reira raa, kei te orokohanganga o te tangata Waahia te tuungaroa o te whare, te whakaputanga moo te Kiingi

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I look down on the valley of Waikato As though to hold it in the hollow of my hand And caress its beauty Like some tender verdant thing I reach out from the top of Pirongia As though to cover and protect its substance with my own See, how it bursts through the full bosoms of Maungatautari and Maungaakawa Hills of my inheritance The river of life, each curve more beautiful than the last Across the smooth belly of Kirikiriroa, its gardens bursting with the fullness of good things Towards the meeting place at Ngaaruawaahia There on the fertile mound I would rest my head and look through the thighs of Taupiri There at the place of all creations Let the King come forth

More than 1,500 hundred people witnessed the signing of the Deed of Settlement for the Waikato River, at a special ceremony hosted in August on the riverbank below Tuurangawaewae Marae. It was a momentous occasion and the ceremony posed an impressive sight with the river itself providing a spectacular, panoramic and natural backdrop.

The negotiators Lady Raiha Mahuta, Tukoroirangi Morgan, and Treaty Negotiations Minister Dr Michael Cullen, along with their officials took centre stage to sign and witness the deed in front of a jubilant audience.

Amongst those in attendance with Waikato-Tainui, were Crown representatives from many local, regional and national organisations, iwi delegates from around the country, dignitaries from indigenous nations, a large contingency of media, and students from a number of wharekura, primary and secondary schools.

Around 30 kuia recited pao or laments giving a historical account of the river’s journey from Karapiro to the sea at Te Puuaha o Waikato.

The programme also included a mass haka following the arrival of King Tuheitia’s fleet of waka tauaa, and special tributes to the late Sir Robert Te Kotahi Mahuta and Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu, who were instrumental in initiating treaty negotiations on behalf of Waikato-Tainui, and achieving settlement of the tribe’s raupatu claim in 1995.

“This claim has spanned 21 years,” said Lady Raiha.

“Many of our leaders and kaumaatua have gone and it is right that they be honoured with this settlement.

“Tuku and I would like to express our appreciation for the contribution of Dr Cullen in achieving this deed for our people. We also acknowledge the contribution of

the Hon Mark Burton in the initial stages, as well as the on-going support we have received from Ministers Parekura Horomia and Mita Ririnui.”

Speeches reinforced that the overarching purpose of the Waikato River settlement, is to restore and protect the health and wellbeing of the river for future generations. Mr Morgan said the vision and strategy to clean up the river will be given the highest level of recognition in law.

“This deed provides for new Waikato River governance Boards representing iwi and Crown interests, and central to the settlement is the establishment of the Guardians of the Waikato River, and the Waikato River Statutory Board which will be vehicle’s for comanagement.

“While there is still work to be done to put new arrangements in place, the settlement affirms the Crown’s commitment to its relationship with WaikatoTainui, and lays the foundation for an exciting new era of co-management.”

Following a touching rendition in remembrance of Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu by nationally acclaimed kapa haka group Te Iti Kahurangi, a further highlight of the day was a performance by one of Aotearoa’s leading female soul artists Hollie Smith, with her national chart topper ‘Bathe in the River”.

Commemorative pins were handed out to mark the historic day and in closing, the master of ceremony Rahui Papa said, “today we are all guardians of the Waikato River and together we celebrate it’s future health and wellbeing.”

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First Reading of the Bill The first reading of the Bill to implement the Deed of Settlement for the Waikato River, took place at parliament in late September.

The legislation recognises the importance of the river to the country, the special relationship of the river with Waikato-Tainui, and for the first time, provides a framework for the management of the river.

In summary, the legislation: • Establishes the Guardians of the Waikato River.

The guardians are responsible for promoting implementation of the vision and strategy which was developed with public participation earlier this year by the Guardians Establishment Committee. Waikato-Tainui, other river iwi, and regional and national stakeholders will be represented on the Guardians of the Waikato River.

• Establishes the Waikato River Statutory Board responsible for implementing and monitoring the vision and strategy between Karapiro and Port Waikato in a co-management framework with Waikato-Tainui.

• Provides legislative recognition for the vision and strategy.

• Establishes a clean up fund for the Waikato River to which the Crown will contribute at least $7m per year for 30 years.

The settlement also: • Establishes relationships between Ministers of the Crown and Waikato-Tainui through a Kiingitanga Accord.

• Funds the participation of Waikato-Tainui in this process and the operation of both the Guardians and the River Board.

• Provides a fund of $50m from which Waikato-Tainui can lead initiatives to restore and protect their relationship to the river.

• Provides a sum of $20m to the Tainui Endowed College established by the late Sir Robert Te Kotahi Mahuta.

Interim Statutory Board for the Waikato River The Waikato River Statutory Board Establishment Committee has been put in place until settlement legislation has been enacted, and held it’s first meeting in late October.

The interim committee is tasked to investigate and report on recommendations for the potential transfer of a function, power or duty of a local authority, to either the permanent Waikato Statutory Board, or to the Waikato Raupatu River Trust – a trust established by Waikato-Tainui to undertake tribal initiatives, exercise Mana Whakahaere from Karapiro to Te Puuaha o Waikato, and receive and manage the settlement redress.

The interim committee will report to Waikato-Tainui, the Crown and relevant local authorities which make recommendations on: a. the transfer of any functions, powers and duties in the short-term; b. a timetable and key steps for the transfer of any functions, powers and duties in the medium to long-term; c. addressing any impediments and/or pre-conditions to a transfer.

The report is to be completed by 1 March 2009.

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Progressing the Deed of Settlement The Deed of Settlement provides for a range of post-settlement obligations and commitments, and will not become final until they are met. These include: • the completion of portfolio-specific Accords; • development of an Integrated Management Plan; • development of regulations, • obligations in relation to river-related lands; and • the completion of scoping studies.

The settlement legislation will come into effect progressively in parts, by Order-in-Council as key instruments are completed.

Post settlement work continues to be progressed and in late October, a Fisheries Accord and a Conservation Accord were signed off.

Seven further portfolio-specific Accords between Ministers/Chief Executives and Waikato-Tainui, are yet to be negotiated and finalised.

For more information contact the Claims and Environment Unit on 0800 TAINUI. Below: Treaty Negotiations Minister Dr Michael Cullen signs the Deed of Settlement for the Waikato River in the presence of Minister for Maaori Affairs Parekura Horomia and Waikato-Tainui co-negotiator Tukoroirangi Morgan. August 2008.

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International relationships and global alliances with other indigenous peoples provided more reason for celebrations during Koroneihana, when the tribe signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with one of Canada’s largest indigenous tribes.

“The downturn in our financial market place this year has reaffirmed the need to maintain a strong portfolio. We both have common business interests that need to be explored further in order to achieve a competitive edge that will benefit both parties,” said Mr Morgan.

Waikato-Tainui and the Squamish First Nation of Vancouver, British Columbia, signed the MOU with the aim of working together towards a shared goal of self-sufficiency.

The Squamish First Nation has commercially robust business interests including fisheries, land development and forestry. They also have billions of dollars worth of reserve land and earn tens of millions a year in income from existing leases and businesses.

Here as guests of the tribe and Kiingi Tuheitia, Chief Gibby Jacob of the Squamish First Nation Chief and Council, said this alliance signalled a commitment from both parties to explore cultural and socio-economic advantages.

“I’d rather spend money with other indigenous groups and help them onto the road of self-sufficiency. This is important for both parties who share a cultural synergy where tribal values would underpin any future business or cultural exchange opportunities that may evolve,” said Chief Gibby Jacob.

Chair of Te Arataura Tukoroirangi Morgan, signed the MOU on behalf of Waikato-Tainui alongside Chief Gibby Jacob, and said the relationship was also a stepping stone in building partnerships with other indigenous groups.

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This year Tainui Group Holdings Ltd reported a growth in the tribe’s portfolio with a total tribal asset base of $570m.

“This partnership is not just about business either,” Mr Morgan added. “We also share in cultural synergies with regards to the retention and revitalisation of our respective languages.”

After the signing, Chief Gibby Jacob, who celebrated with an impromptu ‘kanikani’ with Waikato-Tainui kuia, said he looked forward to growing the relationship between the Squamish and Waikato-Tainui.

Pictured: Members of the Squamish delegation including Council Chief Gibby Jacob (second from right) and Chief Ian Campbell (far right).

For the dedicated kaimahi hosting this year’s Koroneihana Celebrations, it was business as usual. With hundreds in attendance for the weeklong gathering, the many hands ‘behind the scenes’ contributed to its success.

hundreds of students who volunteer their time to waitress in Kimiora (the dining hall). This year, some 200 students from schools throughout Waikato, Auckland and as far as Dannevirke, attended to the daily duties.

“There’s a lot of logistics involved in running Koroneihana, so those kaimahi who with their whaanau, return every year to support this kaupapa, highlight the importance of Kiingitanga to the people,” said Koroneihana Committee Secretary Joyce Paekau.

“It’s good to see all the different kura coming to support this kaupapa. For some of these kids it’s their first time at Koroneihana and they come to Tuurangawaewae Marae and jump straight into the mahi. That in itself is very humbling when you consider what these celebrations are all about – and that is bringing the motu together,” said Sam.

20 beasts, 20 pigs, 20 crates of cabbages, 20 crates of cauliflower, two bins of potatoes, one bin of pumpkin, a pallet of onions and carrots, and 720 two litre bottles of milk helped to feed the many visitors that converged on Tuurangawaewae Marae in August.

Pacific dignitaries, iwi leaders and members of parliament were just some of the visitors who attended. Music, kapa haka, sporting events including netball, indoor bowls and golf, again featured as crowd favourites.

For the past two years, Sam Toka (Ngaati Mahuta, Taniwha Marae), has helped to coordinate

This year there were two significant ceremonies included in the Koroneihana programme; the signing of the tribe’s historical Deed of Settlement for the Waikato River Claim, and the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Squamish First Nation people.

During his address, Kiingi Tuheitia acknowledged the link between the health and wellbeing of the river and the health and wellbeing of WaikatoTainui, highlighting that both are ‘strongly connected’.

Pages 10 - 11: Scenes from Koroneihana 2008

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Opened at the Waikato Museum early last month, the exhibition ‘Te Puna Kai’, is a celebration of Poukai which contains some wonderful images captured by Museum photographer Beau Morgan. “I didn’t have an intimate knowledge of Te Kiingitanga but have learnt much in my travels following Kiingi Tuheitia to Poukai and to formal events around the North Island. It was an experience I will not forget,� said Beau. “These photos represent a time of change for Te Kiingitanga but on a more personal note, they depict my learning and my appreciation for our people and our history.�

The exhibition has been developed with the support of the Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust to recognise 150 years of Kiingitanga, and reflects Poukai as a time of remembrance.

Waikato Museum Photographer Beau Morgan

 �

 € € � ƒ „… €

The ‘pocket’ Poukai Calendar concept was a hit through 2008 and the 2009 edition is hot off the press!

For your own 2009 Pocket Poukai Calendar, freephone 0800 TAINUI or email: reneer@tainui.co.nz.

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It was over 50 years ago that Rawerawe Karaka (Ngaati Tipa), was told she was going to marry Hikairo Herangi (Ngaati Mahuta, Ngaati Ngaawaeroa). Young, determined and having never met her husband-to-be, nerves and anxiety were at the forefront of her mind.

“You don’t get married like how we did anymore dear. Our marriage was very special and you know what, I had a boyfriend at the time – I thought I was marrying him,” she laughs, gesturing to “her mate”, waiting for him to agree.

The pair was married by Kiingi Koroki, in the forecourt of Turongo House at Tuurangawaewae Marae. The late King, who was married to Hikairo’s sister Te Atairangikaahu, oversaw the nuptials as Rawerawe recalls. “My tuupuna were all there sitting around, smiling at us. He (Koroki) grabbed both our hands and wrapped a piece of flax around them and that was our ring. After that he married us. I said ‘am I married to him?’ and they all replied yes. I thought bugger this hahaha.”

Despite the uncertainty, the two “grew to love each other” she said, having a family of nine children and dedicating much of their life to the restoration of Tuurangawaewae Marae, a legacy they continue in the footsteps of Hikairo’s aunty, Te Puea Herangi.

“I was a very sick child when she first came to see me,” explains Rawerawe, who was born and raised in Tuakau. “I was almost dead and she brought me back…that is the power that woman had. My tuupuna told me from that day forward, I would work for her (Te Puea) for the rest of my life to repay what she had given me.”

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Taupo. He also continues to oversee the fleet of waka tauaa at Tuurangawaewae.

Rawerawe has supported many of the projects her husband has been involved with including the restoration of tukutuku at several marae within Waikato-Tainui. Her meticulous works can be seen at the Waikato Museum and in Raukawa at Tuurangawaewae Marae. Over the many years, she has also created beautiful kete whakairo, an area which she is also an expert, as taonga for international visitors, diplomats and special guests to Tuurangawaewae Marae. Rawerawe is also responsible for much of the decorations of the waka tauaa and the kaakahu worn by the crews.

“The things we do, we do all for love dear. We do these things not because we have to, but because we want to. This is how it has always been and how it will stay,” says Rawerawe.

Today the Herangi’s live in the former home of Te Puea, next to the Waikato River at the bottom of Tuurangawaewae Marae.

They have vivid memories of the flooding that occurred in 1958 and 1998.

“The awa has a mind of its own and you have to respect our tuupuna. I can remember from the first flooding all the whaanau moving their belongings, helping each other. It was nothing new to us because we were always working together at the marae,” adds Rawerawe.

It was a “joyous occasion” she says, to see the awa returned to Waikato-Tainui earlier this year, and she hopes it will one day return to the natural beauty it was when she was a child.

Dedicated supporters of the Kiingitanga, Hikairo (78) is a gifted carver and Rawerawe (79) a talented weaver. For many years, they have contributed their time and skills to projects within Waikato-Tainui and were last year recognised for this by Te Waka Toi (Creative New Zealand), receiving the Taa Kiingi Ihaka award for the lifetime contribution to the development and retention of Maaori arts and culture.

“The many years I have been here I have seen plenty of changes and the water is paruparu. I hope it will be clean for my moko, so they know what it looked like when I was a child.”

Hikairo’s portfolio of work includes Auaukiterangi at Maketuu Marae in Kawhia, restoration and conservation work at Mahinaarangi and Raukawa at Tuurangawaewae Marae, and collaboration with Ngaati Tuuwharetoa on Ngaa Manu o Ruakapanga, the historic whare ruunanga at Puukawa in

“We do what we have to do. It is now the time of Kiingi Tuheitia and we will support him as we have supported his mother, his father, and as our tuupuna have supported the Kiingitanga many generations before. Our children and our mokopuna will continue this mahi long after we have gone.”

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With their years of dedication and service to their marae, iwi and hapuu unwavering, the Herangi whaanau remain committed to continuing their mahi for many years to come.

These photos include whaanau of Tuurangawaewae Marae, taken during the 1958 flooding of the Waikato River. The images were captured by Hikairo's brother Darkie and form part of the Herangi whaanau collection.

Do you recognise anyone in the images? If you do, let us know!

Have you had a baby in the last 12 months?

Have you registered your pepi on the tribal register?

Register your pepi and be in the running to win a “Pepi Pack” which features a specially designed Tainui teenie tee, health and wellbeing information, and resources carefully chosen for mum and baby.

“We are trying to encourage our whaanau to register their tamariki, especially new pepi,” says Tribal Registrations Officer Teeny Tukere. “We want to encourage tribal members to register mokopuna from birth. Registration provides benefit to our marae in terms of the annual dividend they get, as well as access to a range of initiatives and grants set up to support our members.”

Every Waikato-Tainui pepi registered from 1 February 2009 onwards, who is under 6 months of age, will go into a monthly draw. Winners will be notified directly.

Decisions are final. No correspondence will be entered into.

For registration forms: Freephone 0800 104 412 or visit our website www.tainui.co.nz.

Photo right: Master Matariki Te Whetu Heremaia (Ngaati Te Ata, Tahunakaitoto Marae) - age 5 months.

New and improved application forms for 2009 tertiary education grants will be available from 1 December 2009, by phoning our new Grants Officer Jackie Haggie on 0800 TAINUI, or download the forms direct from the tribe’s website at www.tainui.co.nz.

Grants are also available for: Te Reo; Maatauranga Maaori and Maatauranga Toi; Tribal Waananga; Health and Wellbeing initiatives; and Kaumaatua medical.

For more information about grants, please contact: Jackie on 0800 TAINUI or email jackieh@tainui.co.nz.

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TRIBAL REGISTER COMPETITION The Tribal Register Unit is updating information on the tribal register.

Have you changed your postal address or do you have an email account?

Enter online now - www.tainui.co.nz Win one of three sets of Tainui books (Tawhiao – King or Prophet, Koroki – My King, and Te Arikinui and the Millennium of Waikato) An iPOD (classic 120GB) A selection of Tainui t-shirts and caps Enter your details online at www.tainui.co.nz/forms/competition.htm.

Competition closes 10 December 2008. Winners will be notified.

Whetu Simon, Waipapa Marae, has been cleansing the data in our tribal register in an aim to increase the accuracy of our records.

Changes have included: • Identifying 1,119 deceased beneficiaries; • Removing 2,125 “non-qualifying people”who did not whakapapa to a raupatu Marae or hapuu; • Removing duplicate entries; • Cleaning address data - there are a total of 29,239 NZ postal addresses, and 1,618 overseas addresses; and • Correcting 1,920 records of name data.

The total number of validated tribal members on the tribal register has reduced from 56,348, to 52,666 members.

Database Administrator Whetu Simon updating tribal records with Panekuhukuhu Muru.

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MARAE INSURANCE A FOCUS FOR 2009 Two Marae surveys were conducted in 2006 and 2007, and a common concern was the number of Marae without insurance protection. Tribal Development Unit (TDU) Manager Marae Tukere says traditionally Marae have been perceived as an insurance risk.

“Insurance brokers have been reluctant to insure our Marae sites because in some instances they are located at a distance far from fire services, some buildings are regularly unoccupied and maintained, and often the buildings are constructed of substandard materials or workmanship. That perception has led to high premiums for those with cover, and high risk for those without.“ Ms Tukere says her unit has been working with Crombie Lockwood Insurance Brokers for the past year, trying to find a solution for Waikato-Tainui Marae. This included visiting Marae and collecting a range of information. She said Crombie Lockwood canvassed every insurance provider in the country looking for an insurance package specifically for Waikato-Tainui Marae.

Crombie Lockwood said “when no insurer in NZ was interested,” they went off-shore, and Lloyds of London, one of the oldest and most prestigious insurance companies in the world, agreed to underwrite a Waikato-Tainui Marae Insurance Package.

Marae Development Officer Eric Pene, says the concept (and ultimate success) of the package, is dependent on support and buy-in from individual Marae. He says “the concept is based on whakakotahitanga whereby the big and small can all benefit, and the success of the package relies on many, if not all of our raupatu Marae joining.”

The Waikato-Tainui Marae Insurance Package 2009 proposal will be available to Te Kauhanganui members at their general meeting on November 30. It is intended the package will then go to Marae Committees.

“This is an excellent opportunity for all our Marae,” said Mr Pene, “with everyone reaping the benefits of competitive premiums and excellent insurance cover.

“We really urge you to seriously consider this package.”

For more information please contact: Tribal Development Unit on 0800 TAINUI or email: ericp@tainui.co.nz or maraet@ tainui.co.nz.

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By Kui Paki

Fred Graham makes me laugh. He’s a bit of a joker and despite his recent 80th birthday, he’s still as sharp as a tack.

“You’ve got to keep the mind active,” he tells me, tapping his temple as he does so. “If this isn’t kept busy, that’s when things go down hill.” I agree and hope my mental stamina is as decisive as his. But it isn’t health or mental agility I’ve come to see him about, it’s art. More specifically, his art.

The acclaimed sculptor has been a leading figure in the New Zealand art scene for over forty years. Since his first solo exhibition in 1966, his works can be found throughout the country and abroad including commissioned works at the Auckland High Court, Auckland Botanic Gardens, the National Archives Building in Wellington, and several public libraries and city squares.

Born in Arapuni in 1928, Fred (Ngaati Koroki Kahukura) was one of a group of Maaori artists including Para Matchitt, Ralph Hotere and Arnold Wilson, who headed the contemporary Maaori art movement. These days he says he is “far more content” to watch others like his son and fellow artist Brett Graham, continue with the legacy he and his peers started those many years ago.

“Art is in a constant state of change. Each generation brings with them a new sense of direction, perception and purpose… that is what art is,” he explains.

As a young man, the naturally gifted Fred excelled at both sport and academia. His talents were a “combination of both mum and dad” he says. The eldest of three, Fred remembers his father Kiwa being “extremely gifted” when it came to the

arts, and describes mum Lena, who performed with Te Pou o Mangatawhiri in the days of Te Puea, as a “real gun on the sports field”.

“I recall one time where dad blacked out the entire bathroom just so he could develop his own film. He was exceptionally creative and I admired him. Mum was a fantastic sports woman. She was extremely competitive and a natural when it came to sport.”

At his home in Waiuku where he has lived with wife Norma for some 20 years, Fred is entertaining two of his mokopuna.

The walls of his house are scattered with paintings and various works of art. Whaanau photos take pride of place, with graduation portraits of his three children Gary, Kathryn and Brett proudly displayed on a wall of its own.

“You asked me, what’s my greatest work of art? I’d have to say my three kids. I should also acknowledge Norma since she helped me with that one a little bit,” laughs Fred, jeering his wife to raise a reaction. It worked.

He speaks fondly of his youth. A head prefect at Hamilton Technical College (now Fraser High School), Fred planned to study engineering but a chance meeting with a friend saw him take up teaching instead. “I won’t say too much except that I saw teaching as an avenue which allowed me to keep playing rugby,” explains the former Maaori All Black, a slight smirk on his face apparent to see.

Fred trained as a national art specialist for the Department of Education during the 1950s. He worked as an art teacher in Northland, Bay of Plenty and Manawatu, eventually teaching art to teachers themselves. One of his greatest regrets adds Fred, was not teaching in the Waikato.

“At the time, I believe I was trying to cast my own shadow. As

Fred and wife Norma.

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my father was held in high regard back home, I wanted to be recognised of my own accord. In that respect I sort of stayed away but I do regret it and if given the chance, would do things differently.”

His work has appeared in several exhibitions here and overseas. In 1986 Fred visited Canada as part of an Artists Exchange Programme and his work was included in ‘Te Waka Toi: Contemporary Maori Art’ which toured the United States in 1994. Internationally, Fred’s work can be seen at the New Zealand High Commission in India; Nauru Airport Fiji; Burke Museum in Seattle; and Port Alberni Quay in Canada.

Along with traditional materials such as wood and stone, Fred also uses plastics and metals in much of his sculptures. Often, his works will depict stories and traditions of Tainui.

“As an artist, it’s very important to me that my work reflects my whakapapa. I will always relate any piece I am working on back to our oral traditions and stories of our past. At the time I started, most of my contemporaries were from Ngaati Porou, so I felt a sense of obligation for my art to be about Tainui. I’m bias, I’ll admit that.”

Working closely with his engineer Rex Erikson, he is often commissioned for private and public collections.

One of his latest pieces includes a series of works about the Waikato River.

“This collection is timely given the return of the awa. It starts from the beginning, depicting the source of the river, acknowledging the maunga Ruapehu, Tongariro and Taranaki, then flows into a series of different sculptures, each reflecting a journey along the river.”

He says he will continue with art “as long as I am able to”. It isn’t a hobby; it’s a lot of hard work he admits. But with a mind like his, it is something I am sure he will continue with for many years to come.

“I’ll stop when I have to and am no longer able…or when Norma says I have to.”

Always a joker.

Birds are also a central theme to many of Fred’s pieces, symbolic representatives he says of “tangata whenua”.

Nicknamed the ‘Bird Man’ by good friend and artist Arnold Wilson, I am anticipating a profound and poetic reason for his affinity for birds; it seems that isn’t quite the case.

“I see birds as the original tangata whenua of the land. They are free spirits and go anywhere they want at their desire.

I’ve often admired that about them. That’s really why I tend to incorporate them into my work, not for some deep and philosophical connection.”

Back at his home studio, Fred has five art projects underway.

Images of Fred’s Work.

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STREAM2SUMMIT There was a sprinkling of rain and a bit of fog setting over the maunga, but the 288 metre climb to the summit of Taupiri was well worth it, as it kicked off the start of Stream2Summit – a series of free guided walks throughout mountains in the Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hauraki, Taupo and Whanganui regions.

Fifty keen and enthusiastic climbers, ranging in age from 7 – 72 years, climbed to the summit and planted trees at the base of Taupiri.

A joint-venture between Sport Waikato and the Department of Conservation to promote Push Play, Stream2Summit featured guided walks through other significant maunga including Karioi, Maungatautari and Pirongia.

The Taupiri climb, held in September, was supported by the Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust and included koorero from kaumaatua about Taupiri and its cultural significance to Waikato-Tainui. Many on the climb were not of Maaori descent and it was encouraging to share with them stories of the tribe, said Environmental Officer Julian Williams.

“If we can educate others as to why Taupiri is sacred to us, then we are taking steps to ensure the koorero and information to the wider public is correct. The stories of our tuupuna are an integral part of our whakapapa and identity as a tribe.”

Surveying of the area, including weeding of dense shrubs and gorse, was undertaken prior to the climb by ‘the Lands Trust’, DOC and members of the Huntly Conservation Corps. A collection of 15 different plant species were planted including Totara (Podocarpus totara), Porokaiwhiri (Hedycarya arborea), Kawakawa (Macropiper excelsum), Matai (Prumnopitys taxifolia) and Kohekohe (Dysoxylum spectabile).

“The physical and natural state of Taupiri is as important as its cultural significance, so I am eager to see more initiatives take place in the future around planting and restoration of the native vegetation. The responsibility is on us to return Taupiri to the beauty she once was,” said scientist Cheri Van Schravendijk.

“Pest control is a problem,” adds Cheri, “with goats, possums and the possibility of other rodents causing major damage to flora and fauna.

“The lack of birdlife on the maunga is indicative of a potential infestation of rats in addition to what we already know have been causing problems, particularly goats and possums. There will need to be long-term initiatives to see these come under control.”

Members from Taupiri Marae showed their green-fingers with a planting session of their own. They planted some 50 different trees last month and a special planting is also planned in memory of Robert Maitland Sommerville (72), who sadly passed away during the summit climb in September.

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Stream2Summit 2008

Mihingarangi Forbes Campbell Live, TV3

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With a name like Mihingarangi, you’d think it would be quite obvious the 35-year-old has a Maaori heritage. But for those who don’t know her, the fair haired, fair skinned, green-eyed reporter is best known for her work with Campbell Live on TV 3.

In this edition we caught up with ‘Mihi’ Forbes who has links into Ngaati Naho on her father’s side, to ask her to give some insight into her chosen profession for those rangatahi who might be interested in following a career in broadcasting and journalism.

Mihi Forbes - Campbell Live, TV3 Some might say you’re ‘cracking it in mainstream’. But in an industry that teaches ‘if it bleeds it leads’ and ‘digs deeper’ to compel controversy, how exactly does one ‘crack it’ in mainstream without neglecting cultural sensitivities?

I wouldn’t say ‘I’m cracking it in mainstream’, afterall e kore te kumara i whakapahu i tona reka , hei aha...yes I guess I’m doing okay and loving the job. Many get a taste of mainstream and don’t like those teachings you spoke about. The question I asked myself going into this industry was - am I a journalist or am I Maaori first?

For me, I’m Maaori first and the teachings from my whaanau place me in a position where I can make conscious decisions about where I’m directing a story and where it’s heading. Am I sensationalising that or compelling controversy rather than achieving objectiveness? You’ve got to put yourself in check and if you don’t know, then go and find out. It brasses me off when reporters don’t realise they’re being culturally insensitive and ignorant.

Really some journalists don’t care and they’re trained not to, but for me...I take pride in staying true to myself and I won’t crap on anyone for a story or to make my way to the top of anything. I guess that’s it really - stay pono to yourself. . .

I was one of three interns chosen, Moko Tini was also one of them. It was awesome and I was exposed to some of the greatest orators and prominent Maaori speakers around.

To have had that opportunity to listen and learn from them, particularly as someone who was not a native speaker, was the best thing I could have asked for.

A few years later in 1996, I joined Aotearoa Television and covered a whole range of roles – presenting, reporting, producing, directing.

So yeah I don’t have any formal media qualifications but have over 14 years work experience in the television industry. I also worked for One News and 20/20 and that experience has been instrumental in achieving the position I have now. I love it, it’s great at Cambell Live.

Why did you decide to follow this career path?

I’ve always been a strong advocate for reporting Maaori issues accurately, particularly in mainstream media. This is a a topic I could go on and on about. How long have you got with me?

Probably because I’m nosey. I think if you are a person who loves being the first to tell everyone something, or love breaking good news and have a sense for it, then you’ve definitely got good grounding to be in this type of mahi.

How did you start out?

I’m one of those people who, when told one of my whaanau are hapuu or something, I’ll ring around and tell everyone else first…I’d call that nosey or a gossip maybe?

I was fortunate to get most of my broadcast and journalism training on the job. I’m a second language speaker and studied 24

te reo Maaori at WINTEC (formerly Waikato Polytechnic).

Couple of things: while I was there in 1993 I did a stint reading the community news at Radio Tainui. That was probably my first journalism job - some scribbles given to me on a piece of tatty paper. Then when I turned 21, after a ‘mock’ class assignment where I parodied Maaori reporter Hinerangi Goodman, I was offered a job working at TVNZ as both a reporter and researcher for Te Karere and Waka Huia.

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Highlights of your career?

There have been many. My children - I have two daughters, Peeti Paerau (7) and Te Ahipourewa (5). Both attend kura kaupapa and have been raised with te reo Maaori as their first language. The retention of te reo is really important and ensuring my babies know their language and are culturally well is paramount. So I’d say that’s part of my career to make sure my children have that.

There’s the funny things - I’ve had to scale a wall in heels and a skirt to avoid a dog; I’ve taken a friend to an interview and got her to push my baby in the pram outside whilst I’ve got an exclusive; I’ve met with gang members, bikies and rival youth gangs. There are lots of highlights.

As a result the network broadcast 15 stories in te reo Maaori across its news programmes including Sunrise, 3 News and Nightline. It also broadcast sports promotions in te reo and language initiatives during its weather breaks. They did and continue to do a great deal with the network’s website too.

When I was starting out I beat all the other mainstream journalists to get Michael Jackson to say a few words when he toured NZ in 1997. I remember myself and my camerawoman squeezing our way through the media frenzy. The crowd had surrounded his limousine. His window was going up and I pushed my way through and asked him if he had a message for the indigenous children of New Zealand. His window came down and he said “yes...tell them I love them”. What a buzz.

Those were the only words he spoke to the press during the entire tour. Needless to say, a few journalists and networks were somewhat irate that this little Maaori girl got Michael’s only response.

It might seem minor but there was a time when even the pronounciation of Maaori words was shocking and perhaps noone cared. There’s a huge drive to improve these things now.

The main highlight that comes to mind is covering Te Arikinui’s tangi. It was such a beautiful tangi.

I remember sitting with John (from Campbell Live), going live to air for the show and doing an interview about the tangi process and explaining certain things that happen at a tangi.

To have been able to share that with the country and having that sense of being Maaori, was a fantastic feeling.

In terms of making a difference, do you think you’ve made one in your chosen industry?

I really hope I have. Especially for my Paakehaa counterparts.

Earlier this year, during Maaori Language Week, I took six weeks off to concentrate solely on implementing Maaori language projects within the network.

Anyway, the work paid off with TV3 taking home two awards at the 2008 Maaori Language Week Awards, and for the fourth year running, they won the television category for the use of te reo in media, AND were one of two Supreme Awards that were presented.

I loved initiating this kaupapa.

Have I made a difference? I think I have and it was great to have the support of my colleagues and our network executives who were really receptive to the ideas.

At the moment I’m also working on a blog, ‘Ngaa Taake Maaori’, which will be up on the TV3 website so I’m really encouraged by what we can do with this.

You asked me earlier why did I decide to follow this career path - I think the other thing aside from being nosey, is you have to be a good communicator...and I love to talk...

In any case, you need to be passionate about what you do.

This is a great industry to work in either Maaori or mainstream.

I say whatever it is you like doing, go for it!

Have we run out of time yet?

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CLIMBING MOUNTAINS Annie Doyle climbs mountains.

In fact she’s climbed four of the seven highest mountains on the continent. And at nearly 50 years of age, most would say she’s a bit of a legend...

“I completed my first really big climb at the age of 40, which sounds old, but is actually perfect for mountain climbing. You need years of mental toughness and dedication to get up big mountains.”

And the list of big mountains she’s conquered is pretty impressive and includes Africa’s Mt Kilimanjaro (5892m), Russia’s Mt Elbrus (5600m), and Mt Aconcagua (7000m) which is in Argentina, South America.

The second annual Iwi of Origin was held in Auckland recently, with tribal members from Waikato-Tainui amongst those who participated in the sporting competition. Hosted by North Harbour Sport, Iwi of Origin is an event established to engage urban Maaori through sport, promoting participation and the development of communities as well as celebrating tribal identity.

Over 300 people competed in sporting events including netball, touch, golf and waka ama. Tribal members from Makaurau, Puukaki, Te Puea and Whaataapaka Marae, represented Waikato-Tainui, with whaanau from Ngaati Paoa also joining the Tainui contingent.

“It was an awesome day enjoyed by all,” said Denise Takinui (Te Aakitai, Puukaki Marae), a coordinator for the Waikato-Tainui teams. “Once again we had the largest contingent of iwi present and held Te Arikinui’s flag with pride.”

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“Reaching the summit is only half the journey. It’s a great feeling arriving at the top, but often you don’t enjoy it as much as you should because then you’ve got to turn around and climb back down,” says Annie who also descends from Ngaati Mahuta, Tuurangawaewae Marae.

Born and raised in Hamilton, Annie is now based in Australia with her husband and two children. A self confessed adrenaline junkie, she is in the throws of preparing for her next major climb up Mt McKinley in Alaska, which at 6194m is the fifth of the seven summits she has her sights set on.

“Mountain climbing requires discipline, stamina, stubborn perseverance, camaraderie, and being able to continue when you feel like rubbish.”

Annie says her most difficult climb so far has been Mt Aconcagua, attempting the climb twice in 2000 and 2008.

The roopu finished first in three events taking home the hikoi, mixed netball and golf trophies, and also gained second place in the U19s Waka Ama, mixed and primary netball sections.

“In 2000 I climbed with a terrible team, mostly males. They just wanted to get to the top at all costs and consequently we failed abysmally as a team. But going back to Aconcagua in January this year was awesome. We acclimatised beautifully, the weather gods were smiling, we had a fantastic team of women, and I thought it was amazing summiting after having to quit early last time.”

Denise said they were fortunate to have great support from many nannies and papas who came to “manaaki the pepi whilst their parents participated in the activities,” and she acknowledged kaumaatua Hinengaru Rauwhero (Ngaati Hauaa, Raukawa), William Rauwhero and Maurice Wilson (Waikato, Waiohua) for the guidance.

Apart from cases of ‘mild altitude sickness’ and an unfortunate gastro problem on Mt Kilimanjaro ‘that was more bad luck than anything’, the 49 year old has had no serious injuries since she took up climbing nine years ago. Her dedication means she undertakes a rigorous training regime in preparation for each climb.

“We look forward to 2009 and the opportunities that events like these bring, such as representing our iwi, rekindling relationships with our Waikato whaanaunga and ngaa iwi o te motu.”

“I run three times a week (10kms), I trek a couple of times a week with a 20kg pack on, and it usually involves distance and stairs. I do two or three core training sessions each week, and I rock-climb twice a week.”

Pictured above: Te Puea Marae participants.

Pictured: Annie Doyle

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Through climbing Annie has helped raise funds for numerous charities with much of the proceeds distributed to third world countries. She also involves her family in climbs and has taken both her children Matt (18 years) and Grace (16 years) on various excursions.

“I took my daughter to Mt Kinabalu in Malaysia last year and we summitted together, which was pretty special. She really rose to the occasion. But it was actually quite nerve wrecking for me having to worry about her on the mountain, but she was great.”

With preparation going well, Annie will attempt the McKinley climb in May of next year. Then she will tackle Mt Everest in Nepal in 2011, and Mt Vinson in Antarctica in 2012.

Knowing that only 26 women in the world have done all seven summits, has been a positive motivator for Annie and she looks set to be the first Maaori woman to join these ranks.

“The fitter you are the better you’ll go, but there’s more to mountain climbing than just fitness, it’s a way of life, it permeates all you do, your lifestyle, your work ethic, it all ties back to your passion.”

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For 45 years Huhana Clark has lived in Wellington and in that time she has seen many changes.

But as a kuia of taurahere roopu Waikato ki Roto o Poneke, one thing has remained constant in her life. “The Kiingitanga played a big part in the establishment of our roopu. We need to be nourished in the Kiingitanga to show our mokopuna why we started. This has and will always be one of the reasons this roopu exists.�

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A matriarch of Waikato ki Roto o Poneke, Huhana Clark (Ngaati Tamainupo, Raakaunui Marae) is its most knowledgeable and longest serving member. She grew up in Huntly but moved to Wellington in her early 20s. Every year the 65-year old grandmother returns to the Waikato for Koroneihana. Every year she plans for the next. She doesn’t make it to all poukai, “that’s a lot of puutea for me to travel from Poneke”, but makes sure she gets to the Poutu poukai in Shannon.

“I do these things because I grew up with Kiingitanga. It is who I am, but I know a lot of our whaanau here in Poneke haven’t had that.

Not because they don’t want to know, but because they weren’t raised with it. That’s why this roopu is here - to awhi our whaanau.”

Waikato ki Roto o Poneke was established in 1964 in the boning sheds of the Petone Freezing Works. Through a social network of workers and their whaanau who mostly came from the Waikato, the group was formed to ensure the ties back home would never be lost. “We had people like Matiu Whauwhau, Ina Te Uira, Apanui Watene, May Kingi, Te Kore Tuwhangai-Crown and Duke Crown leading our roopu. They were the driving force in those early days,” said Huhana. “They’d meet regularly, often for hui or waananga, but on occasion for fundraising events to support kaupapa back in the Waikato. We used to have the Princess Carnival. It was like a debutante ball and the proceeds were to help with fundraising efforts for Kimiora, the dining hall at Tuurangawaewae Marae. It was nice to have functions like that because people from home including the late Te Arikinui, would come down to tautoko us,” adds Huhana.

She recalls the first Kiingitanga waananga held in July 1979 with greatest fondness, and remembers many waananga held on Waikato-Tainui reo me oona tikanga. “It was 1981 and I remember Pumi Taituha was with us at the time. It was during this waananga that he composed the waiata Maa Wai Raa.” Today Huhana is still a member of the committee. Like so many others, she acknowledges that times have changed and there are new challenges faced by rangatahi. “Our young ones are living in times much different from my days so we need to look at how we can make it more feasible for them. It’s time for them to take the leadership.”

Despite meeting intermittently over the last five years, Secretary Awhimai Reynolds (Ngaati Maahanga, Te Papaorotu Marae) says the new committee elected earlier this year, have set strategic goals to further strengthen the group’s foundations.

“A number of issues have been raised including identifying ways in which to better engage our rangatahi who have been brought up in Poneke, away from our tribal hub. The fact that geographically we are removed from it isn’t necessarily the problem, but it is a contributing factor. Development of the relationship between ourselves and our tribal administration, as well as regular on-going communication, are all very important and imperative to our growth.”

Huhana agrees. “After so many years, I am proud to see our roopu still alive. We’ve had ups and downs but we must continue with the path forward so it is now in the hands of our young people. Our maatauranga will be passed onto the next generation only if we keep it alive. And that is why we are still here, to do just that.”

Pictured : Huhana Clark (Ngaati Tamainupo, Raakaunui Marae)

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IT’S OFFICIAL Waikato-Tainui has made it into the Guinness Book of World Records © for the largest haka, setting a new world record of 3,264 participants.

Following months of processing and anticipation, officials from ‘Guinness’ have finally sent confirmation that our attempt is now recognised, beating the previous record of 2,200 held by a group in Australia.

Hosted at the Hopuhopu Sports Complex on the 16th February 2008, “Toia Mai Te Waka” was performed with a time of 5mins 31secs.

Aue hi, aue ha!

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BANNER: From All Walks of Life

Pictured: Warren pictured with his model.

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When he was 12 years old, Warren Dion Smith (Ngaati Tamaoho) was cutting hair. Not in a salon, but in a small shed at the back of Mangatangi Marae, south of Auckland. He’d practise on a mannequin’s head “with its own hair too by the way and one of my nannies would let me put it on her table”.

Eventually he started giving all the whaanau haircuts.

“I was cutting everyone’s hair; my cousins, aunties, uncles, nannies – if they needed it cut, they’d get me to do it. The Marae was kind of my first salon really and the whaanau were my first clients. So I have to thank them for giving me my start in the industry.”

Now at 34, the boy from Mangatangi has replaced the Marae’s shed, for an upmarket salon in central Wellington and moved on to be one of the country’s top stylists. Not that he’ll ever admit to it though. “Gosh, I just love being creative so I’m fortunate to be in a job where I’m able to express myself. And I never treat clients as just a job. I was raised to respect people and because the head is so tapu (sacred), I see cutting hair as something that should be treated in the same manner.”

I’m going to do it and I don’t care how old or how late I am in getting qualified.”

In 2006, he completed his National Certificate in Hairdressing at Wellington Polytechnic and has been a guest lecturer on the course. He also completed his assessor’s certificate through the New Zealand Association of Registered Hairdressers, allowing him to officiate as a judge at any sanctioned competitions in New Zealand.

Despite this, Warren, whose whakapapa links to Waikato are through the Edwards and Paki whaanau, believes his greatest challenge still lies ahead of him.

Warren has lived in Wellington the last five years, working as a senior stylist for Get Funkd, a chain of salons situated throughout the region. His CV not only includes hairdressing, but he’s also a makeup artist and counts photography and painting amongst his passions.

“I moved here from Hamilton in 2003 to work as a makeup artist on Peter Jackson’s movie King Kong. It was fantastic. I spent a year on the set just retouching people’s makeup.”

Over the years Warren has collected several hairdressing awards. He has received Waikato Senior and Junior hairdressing accolades but more recently, has been Wellington’s overall Mens top stylist (2007 and 2008), overall cutter (2008), and has judged regional competitions in Taranaki, Palmerston North and Nelson.

“I’ve been in these competitions for the last nine years, and each year it’s different. There’s always someone or something setting the stage so it keeps you on your toes. I wouldn’t say I’m competitive but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t there to win.”

Warren has been involved with the fashion awards show Style Pasifika, as Director of Styling in 2006, and an entrant in the Pasifika Body Art section in 2007.

“The body is like another canvas but because of our curves and texture of our skin, it can be a challenge to paint on.”

Considering Warren had no formal qualifications up until three years ago, his resumé of achievements is all the more impressive.

“I gained all my skills on the job which made me feel a little whakamaa (shy) in the beginning but then I thought bugger it, 32

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Photos: Models covered in bodypaint showcase Warren’s talent.

“I have been away for so long and although I grew up on the Marae, I feel a sense of loss because I haven’t been emerged in things Maaori for a while. I learnt so much from my nannies Millie (Paki-Edwards) and Elizabeth (Edwards), and my poppa Joseph (Tangaturoto Edwards), that the time now has come for me to reconnect.”

Some of his greatest supporters adds Warren, are his Paakehaa colleagues. “They’ve been so supportive of my journey. Every morning I go into work and will say small things in Maaori to them and my clients, like ‘kia ora’ and ‘moorena’, just to make the environment more whaanau like. It might not be major to others, but for me, knowing that they’re trying to make an effort means a lot.”

Establishing his own company WDS Limited earlier this year, Warren is excited about the future. “I’ve enrolled in Te Ataarangi, I’ve got the NZ Hairdressing Awards coming up soon and I’m hoping to have a baby – that’s a lot of goals really isn’t it. I also want to produce a documentary and a behind-the-scenes exposé on the hair and makeup industry that would just be fabulous.”

The time for Warren to reconnect to his Marae may happen sooner than he thinks. “I thought I’d let you know that I got a phonecall from my uncle asking me to consider being a rep on the tribe’s parliament Te Kauhanganui. I’d love to do it. The distance is a bit of a challenge but we’ll have to wait and see...”

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His voice is reminiscent of an old school crooner and his name is synonymous with love songs and ballads.

Leon Wharekura (Ngaati Whaawhaakia, Ngaati Mahuta, Te Kauri Marae) has been a stalwart of the New Zealand music scene for over 10 years and recently released his debut album It’s A Love Thing.

The Hamilton born, Huntly raised singer began his career under the guidance of his famous uncles, Dalvanius Prime and Billy T James. After three years as a backup singer and soloist for the Billy T James Show Band, Leon spent time working in both Australia and China. During his time in China, the 37 year old taught music to children at the Tianjin Blind School, seeing it as an opportunity to share his gift and passion with others.

From a musically gifted family, Leon’s album It’s A Love Thing is a collection of easy listening melodies, in Maaori and English, with original compositions and some well known covers including the song Mum, made famous by Prince Tui Teka. The album also features He Kawai Ariki, a song written by Leon’s cousin Hone Nuku Tarawhiti, with music composed by his late uncle Dalvanius.

“This song is dedicated to Te Arikinui Te Atairangikaahu. He (Dalvanius) composed it but when he got sick, uncle asked me to continue with it and so I worked with the song, mixing in and putting my own spin on it.”

Why a career in music? Because I have loved music since I was a kid. Mum and Dad encouraged me to sing and participate in anything musical; I guess they saw in me something that just came naturally. I always believed in doing something you love and being able to make a living from it.

What have been the highs and lows of your career so far? No lows really. Stacks of highs like meeting loads of interesting people, travelling around the world, learning about different countries and cultures. In the early days I would question if I could hang in this industry but I was determined to survive and make it work.

What’s the greatest lesson you’ve learnt about the music industry? This is a people business as much as a music business. Talent is 20% of the formula and attitude is 80%. No attitude, no altitude. I don’t mean attitude in a bad way. It’s about constantly working towards what you want for your life without losing yourself along the way. It also pays to be a nice person, and knowing the difference between ego and confidence is very important.

Any upcoming music projects that you’re working on? A tour to promote It’s a Love Thing. Shooting a video for one of my tracks.

Working on a song for Tribal Pride 09 with other artists from Waikato Tainui. Facilitating our second STEPS TO SUCCESS music seminars - check out www.okareentertainment.co.nz for more info.

What music are you listening to at the moment? I’m enjoying RnB artists like Ne Yo and Rihanna. I also love Katchafire’s latest album. Ruia has some cool tracks as well. When I want to chill, Whirimako’s CDs are always close by.

Tell us something nobody knows about you? I am pretty good at cooking Chinese food. Not takeaway stuff but the real thing. When I lived in China, my Chinese friends would teach me how to make different dishes from their regions.

What’s your favourite waiata of all time? Too many to name but off the top of my head Luther Vandross’ version of A House Is Not A Home.

If you could collaborate with any musician living or dead, who would it be and why? Living – Whirimako Black. I think our voices would work well together in a duet. Past – my father and mother. I wish we could have recorded something together. We always used to sing three-part harmony when I was growing up.

What would be your best advice for anyone wanting to have a career in music? Get clear about your goals. Visualise what your music career looks like and start taking action that will bring you closer to it. Keep focused by building a network of people who have similar interests so you can support each other through the ups and downs which will surely come. Leverage your talents by using the internet to promote your music to potential markets.

Always carry business cards and always try to give the best gig you can. You never know who is out there watching - maybe your next client. That’s how I got to China!!

Pictured: Leon Wharekura

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With her music being described as “pure Aotearoa soul”, Nat Rose has the reputation and experience that places her as one of New Zealand’s leading soulful divas.

Nat’s debut album Golden Hour was released earlier this year and is a smooth, melodic collection that reflects her distinct Maaori heritage.

Although she grew up with her Ngaati Porou whaanaunga, Nat has links to Ngaati Mamoe, Ngaati Tuuwharetoa, Te Whaanau a Apanui, Ngaati Kahungunu and Waikato-Tainui. Born in Invercargill but raised in Auckland and Ruatoria, Nat’s maternal grandmother Wara Hakopa (nee Tawha), was of Ngaati Mahuta descent and grew up around Waahi Paa in Huntly.

“I was raised with my whaanau from Ngaati Mamoe and Ngaati Porou, but I’ve always known my links to Waikato. My grandparents and my parents were very tuturu and made sure those values were instilled in us from a young age,” explains Nat, who loves diving for “all sorts of kaimoana” when she’s not making music.

“I recently went to see my mum about my Tainui whakapapa and ties, to reinforce what I already knew and to make sure I had it right in my head. In saying that though, I don’t feel a sense of loss but an urge to know more about it and I’m cool with that.”

Nat started her music career with a stint in Japan performing with a kapa haka roopu when she was 18. By her early 20s she was touring with Aotearoa hip hop pioneers Upper Hutt Posse. In 1999, she completed a Diploma in Contemporary

Music Performance at the Music and Audio Institute of New Zealand (MAINZ) and has sung backing vocals for many New Zealand music icons including Hollie Smith and Ladi 6.

“Music was all around me when I was younger. My family are all pretty talented and gifted musicians on both sides. I’ll be looking to put them on my next album – all for aroha of course,” laughs Nat. Collaborating with close friends and producers such as Leon Davies (Katchafire) and the late Phil Fuemana, Golden Hour is a timeless and soft masterpiece with dedicated tracks like Reporua and Peachy Pooh proving Nat’s sultry vocals are deserving of an audience.

“I want my music to be exposed to everyone. I want people to take from it a sense of who I am and what Nat Rose is all about, so for sure man, if I can get stage time I’ll take it. I’ve performed at Koroneihana in the past and love the fact that I can come back and perform to my whaanaunga in Waikato.”

With two young boys, Tuhia i te Rangi (11) and Rawiri (1), the 34 year old says the journey to produce her first solo album had its “difficult moments”, but the devoted musician remains focused as she concentrates on her career.

“We’re hopefully going to produce a video for one of the tracks off the album but funding is an issue at the moment so it’s a work in progress. Like all things you re-evaluate what’s possible and what’s not and I’m taking it one step at a time.”

Golden Hour is out now, for more details check out www. amplifier.co.nz or www.myspace.com/natrosemusic.

Pictured Above: Nat Rose

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Marae Seminars to kick off in 2009 The success of Marae Information Seminars held in 2007 and 2008, will continue in 2009 with a new series of five seminars planned.

Seminars are open to all Waikato-Tainui Marae, are free to attend, and will cover the following topics: • Accessing Funding • Marae Charters • Project Management • Implementing Project Management Tools • Financial Tips and access to Governance and Management.

Dates are still to be confirmed. To find out more information, or to register your interest, please contact: Eric Pene, Tribal Development Unit, freephone: 0800 TAINUI or email: ericp@tainui.co.nz.

Free Home Ownership Education Programmes Huakina Development Trust offer Home Ownership Programmes to whaanau from Ngaaruawaahia to Manukau.

Programmes also offer information for whaanau wishing to build on Maaori land.

Upcoming Programme Dates

4 December 2008 16 December 2008

9.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. Papakura 9.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. Waiuku

For further details please contact: Rangita Wilson, Housing Manager Huakina Development Trust, phone (0508) 438474, or email rangita@huakina.co.nz.

Waikato–Tainui Knowledge Advisory Group (TKAG) The Tribal Development Unit is currently looking for expressions of interest to set up a Tribal Knowledge Advisory Group.

Are you:

Do you:

• • • •

18 years or older?

A tribal member registered on the Waikato-Tainui tribal register?

Interested in contributing to tribal development in the area of maatauranga?

Possess knowledge and skills pertaining to Waikato–Tainui maatauranga?

For an expression of interest pack, call 0800 TAINUI and ask to speak to a member of the Tribal Development Unit, or download the information from www.tainui.co.nz

To Whaanau from Te Puuaha o Waikato Whaanau from Sydney will be heading to Brisbane in Easter 2009 to compete in Rugby League, Netball, 8 Ball, Bowls, Touch, kids activities and more.

If you want to be part of this event, the planning committee meets on the last Saturday of each month. Please contact: Warren Katipa (040) 7957 627 or email wkatipa@hotmail.com for more details.

for your kete...

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TE HOOKIOI - WHIRINGA AA RANGI/NOVEMBER 2008

Tainui Waka Primary Kapa Haka NON AGGREGATE SECTION WAIATA TIRA 1st Place Maeroa 2nd Place Te Ara Maurea o te Huinga Taniwha 3rd Equal Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Pititikawa / Noera

KAITATAKI TANE 1st Place Maeroa 2nd Equal Te Ara Maurea / Rakaumangamanga 3rd Place Kaokaoroa o Patetere

KAKAHU 1st Equal Te Ara Maurea/Rakaumangamanga 2nd Equal Kaokaoroa o Patetere/Maeroa/Noera 3rd Place Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Te Rau Aroha

ORIGINALITY 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga 2nd Equal Maeroa / Te Ara Maurea 3rd Place Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Pititikawa

KAITATAKI WAHINE 1st Place Rakaumangamanga 2nd Place Maeroa 3rd Place Te Ara Maurea o te Huinga Taniwha AGGREGATE SECTION WHAKAEKE 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga 2nd Place Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Noera/Te Ara Maurea 3rd Place Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Pititikawa/Maeroa

WHAKAWATEA 1st Equal Rakaumanga / Noera 2nd Place Maeroa 3rd Equal Te Ara Maurea / Pititikawa

WAIATA KOROUA 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga 2nd Equal Te Rau Aroha / Noera 3rd Place Te Ara Maurea o te Huinga Taniwha

TE REO MAORI 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga 2nd Equal Te Ara Maurea / Noera 3rd Place Te Rau Aroha

WAIATA A RINGA 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga 2nd Place Te Ara Maurea 3rd Place Maeroa POI 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga 2nd Place Maeroa 3rd Place Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Noera HAKA 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga 2nd Place Maeroa 3rd Place Kaokaoroa o Patetere

OVERALL WINNERS & TAINUI WAKA REPRESENTATIVES FOR 2008 1st Place Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga 2nd Place Te Roopu Kapa Haka o Noera 3rd Place Te Ara Maurea

Pictured above: Te Wharekura o Rakaumangamanga

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Cliff Rapira admits he gets a little nervous when watching his sons Sam and Steve play league. “Before a game I’m always a little bit anxious for them. There can be a bit of pressure on the boys, especially if it’s a playoff so my nerves do at times get the better of me, like any parent would I guess.”

Last month, Cliff, wife Liz and daughter Claire (16yrs pictured above with her brothers), all flew to Australia to cheer on the boys as they took the field for their respective teams – Sam (21) for the Vodafone Warriors and Stevie (19) for the U20 Junior Warriors.

Despite the Vodafone Warriors losing the grand final qualifier with a 32-6 loss to Manly, and the juniors being pipped in the dying seconds to Brisbane 28-26, Cliff says he couldn’t be prouder of the pair.

“Myself, Liz and Claire are 100% behind the boys. We’ve always been proud of them and what they’ve achieved so far. They’ve made the decision to make careers for themselves as professional league players, so we support them in everything they do.”

The dynamic duo started their league careers playing under 5s for Hamilton club Hukanui. A league player himself, Cliff (Ngaati Amaru, Te Awamaarahi Marae) remembers the boys tagging along to games and mucking in with the other children.

“They’d get in there with the other kids, tackle and throw the ball around. We never pushed the boys into pursuing league it just happened to be that I played and they naturally followed.”

Whilst students at Hamilton Boys High School, the boys also played rugby. But it was league that they eventually concentrated on.

Today, Sam and Steve are both big, burly, barnstorming forwards. And the brothers are very supportive of each other adds Cliff.

“They give each other pointers about their games. Sammie is older and has been playing longer so he shares his knowledge and experience in the premiere grade with his brother. Stevie is the more competitive of them but that’s because he’s suffered a lot more injuries this season and wants to get at the top of his game. At the end of the day, they’re brothers so they’re definitely looking out for one another.”

At 184cm and 105kg, Sam made his National Rugby League debut for the Warriors against Wests Tigers in May 2006. Set to take the leading prop position left behind by league legend Reuben Wiki, Sam has scored 28 ‘NRL’ points this season and has made 63 NRL appearances. Making his debut for the Kiwis last year, he was named in the NZ squad to train for this year’s Rugby League World Cup. He has also played for NZ A, NZ Residents and the Junior Kiwis.

Photo Above: Sam (left) and Steve (right) with sister Claire. Photo Top Right: Sam and Steve. Photo Bottom Right: Sam and Steve with the Hukanui Under 7’s.

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TE HOOKIOI - WHIRINGA AA RANGI/NOVEMBER 2008

MARAMATAKA NOVEMBER / NOEMA 2008 28 Kaumaatua Luncheon 29 Te Kauhanganui Meeting 29 Hura Koowhatu o Ngahinaturae

Te Uira 30 Induction Hui for New Te Kauhanganui Representatives DECEMBER / TIIHEMA 2008 06 Waikare Poukai 14 Reretewhioi Poukai 19 WRTCL Offices Close Steve who turns 20 next month, played second row for the Junior Warriors in the inaugural Toyota Cup. Yet to make his first grade debut, Steve is a former Waicoa Bay Stallion (Bartercard) and played for the NZ U16s in 2004 and 2005 - the same year Sam captained the team. The 94kg forward recently signed a two-year contract with the North Queensland Cowboys, where if he hasn’t already, he will start pre-season training before Christmas.

The idea of the boys potentially meeting in the coming season could prove testing for the whaanau says Cliff, with support torn between the Warriors and the Cowboys. “It’s going to be tough alright. We will support them both but it’ll be really hard to pick one over the other. I’ll have to make a special jersey I think, one half the Warriors for Sammie and the other Cowboys for Stevie, that way I’m covered.”

JANUARY / HAANUERE 2009 05 WRTCL Offices Open 24 Tribal Pride Concert

TE HOOKIOI IN-HOUSE DESIGN & PUBLISHING Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust 451 Old Taupiri Road Private Bag 542 Hopuhopu Ngaaruawaahia 3742 Telephone: +64 7 824 8689 Facsimile: +64 7 824 5133 PRINTING & DISTRIBUTION Printhouse, Hamilton CONTRIBUTIONS & LETTERS Please send to: The Editor - TE HOOKIOI Private Bag 542 Hopuhopu Ngaaruawaahia 3742 or email: janetf@tainui.co.nz ISSN 1173-7530 The contents of Te Hookioi may not be reproduced in any form either part or whole without the permission of the publisher. Neither the Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust (including agents and subsidary groups) nor individual writers accept any responsibility or liability for anything done or not done by any person in reliance, whether wholly or partially, on any of the contents of this publication.

Note: Opinions expressed may not necessarily reflect the policy or views of the Waikato Raupatu Lands Trust (including agents and subsidary groups).

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WAIKATO-TAINUI AND EVENT MANAGEMENT GROUP PRESENT

OLD TAUPIRI ROAD - HOPUHOPU SPORTS COMPLEX - NGAARUAWAAHIA

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Tickets TICKETEK (booking fee TE HOOKIOIvia - WHIRINGA AA RANGI/NOVEMBER 2008applies)

- Earlybird Tickets $50 Adult (17yrs+) & $30 (5-16yrs)