The significance of Kapahaka
Kapahaka is the term used to describe a group of people who perform traditional
Maori performing arts. The items the group perform include, patere – chant, poi
– ball dance usually performed by women, waiata a ringa – action song and haka
taparahi – posture dance of defiance. The language, movements and the way these
particular items are performed are specific to their iwi (tribe) or hapu (sub-tribe).
Kapahaka is an integral part of contemporary Maori society and culture and has
become an important way for Maori to celebrate and express themselves as Maori.
Te Matatini is a kapahaka competition that draws together the best kapahaka groups
from throughout New Zealand to compete in a national competition. The competition
is fierce and much mana (prestige) is accredited to the overall winner.
Further Information:
Website: www.tematatini.org.nz
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