Te Tini o Awa sisters prepare for Mataatua Regionals 2026

Sisterhood, Kotahitanga and Carrying Culture Forward 

Awanuiārangi tauira and sister tutors Te Whakapakari (Puks) Hale and Marewa Filipo, together with fellow tutors Te Haupaeroa and Marihi Hona, Rewiti Elliot, and Naomi Herewini-Houia, have been preparing Te Tini o Awa for this weekend’s Mataatua regional kapa haka competition. 

The sisters explain that Te Tini o Awa represents more than just performing. 

“To us, Te Tini o Awa represents identity, belonging, and the strength of our people. It connects us to who we are and where we come from. It reflects our shared history, our culture, and the values that shape us as individuals. 

“Collectively, Te Tini o Awa represents unity: bringing people together and creating a sense of continuity between the past, present, and future. It honours those gone before us, acknowledges those who stand today, and supports generations still to come.  

“It reminds us that we’re part of something larger than ourselves, and that our identity is strengthened when we stand together as one people.” 

Together, the sisters lead with a dynamic shaped by whakapapa and shared expectations. 

“Being sisters influences the way we tutor together, through a foundation of trust, accountability, and our shared commitment to achieving excellence.  

“We work with an unspoken understanding of one another’s expectations and standards, which lets us communicate openly and honestly.  

“We don’t always agree on things, but we know each other so well that we can handle our differing opinions with respect. Ultimately, we will always work through these challenges for the benefit of the team; our decisions are never made lightly.” 

Their leadership styles are complementary. 

Te Whakapakari explains that she tends to focus on choreography, structure, sharpening performance, and overall delivery of words and presentation.  

“Marewa specialises in the execution of actions, placement, and ensuring that performance quality aligns with our vision.  

“Our roles are complementary and allow us to balance creativity with precision. Together we create a strong, unified standard that we expect from every team we tutor.” 

The impacts of kapa haka are immeasurable.  

“We see kapa haka making a real difference in the well-being and confidence of our people. For those living away from home, it’s a way to reconnect with their iwi and whakapapa.  

“That connection helps strengthen their sense of identity and belonging and makes them feel proud of who they are and where they come from.  

“It also gives people a safe space to learn, grow their skills, express themselves creatively, and really deepens their understanding of te ao Māori.   

“More importantly, kapa haka encourages people to give back. That sense of giving and sharing helps build well-being for everyone.” 

The sisters are also tauira in the Bachelor of Māori Performing Arts at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi.  

“Doing this degree has formalised and given academic structure to the knowledge and skills we’re already practising, validating our lived experience and grounding it in a recognised academic framework.  

“More importantly, it’s encouraged us to think more critically about our journey in kapa haka. It challenges us to reflect more deeply on our performance, discipline, and responsibilities as kaihaka and tutors.” 

As the weekend approaches, their focus remains firmly grounded in kotahitanga.  

“This journey ensures our cultural knowledge, values, and stories are passed on, while helping create leaders who stand tall, carry their identity proudly, and continue the legacy of Te Tini o Awa. 

“Kotahitanga is unity, collective strength, and shared purpose. Performing is just one part; the bigger goal is to empower our people to confidently represent their iwi and communities, both on and off the stage.”