Following an unforgettable weekend of Kaumātua Kapa Haka performances at Te Papa in Wellington (28-29 June), “He Kura Te Tangata” Charitable Trust has been formed to secure the future of Kaumātua Kapa Haka.

National Coordinator, Puti Mackey says there’s strong support for Kaumātua Kapa Haka to develop and an air of excitement.

“We had a brilliant weekend and everyone can see the many benefits of developing Kaumātua Kapa Haka. It provides a platform for our senior performers to demonstrate their well-honed skills, it allows people to witness the way famous Māori compositions were meant to be performed and it’s a wonderful gathering to be part of it.“

Pae Ruha has named the trust, “He Kura Te Tangata” in recognition that Kaumātua Kapa Haka is about treasuring the contribution of senior Māori performers. Pae has also chosen the name to complement the concept of ‘He Kuru Pounamu’, which refers to the ancestral treasures, or the musical compositions created by famous Māori composers who have since passed on.

Kiritokia E Te Tomairangi Paki has been appointed as Te Manu Taupua (Patron) of “He Kura Te Tangata” Trust. Tomairangi is the second daughter of the late Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu and sister to Kingi Tuheitia. Tomairangi is an accomplished performer, cultural director, choreographer and leader of Taniwharau.

The inaugural trust members are Mamae Takerei (Waikato-Taniwharau), Pae Ruha (Te Whānau-ā-Apanui), Tama Huata (Ngāti Kahungunu), Julie Dwyer (Te Whanganui-a-Tara) and a trustee from Ngāi Tahu which is to be confirmed.