Ka Wai Ola - Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Volume 2, Number 10, 1 October 1985 — Maoris Highlight Cultural Exchange [ARTICLE]

Maoris Highlight Cultural Exchange

The Waikato culture group of Aotearoa, New Zealand, concluded a successful tour of Europe by putting on a final performance during a Honolulu stopover Sept. 7. Led by Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu and her husband, Whatumoana Paki, the group staged a cultural exchange, performing Hawaiian songs and hula while the Hawaiians did Maori songs. Appearing with the Maoris and serving as host for the evening concert in the Princess Ruth Ke'elikolani Auditorium were Kumu Hula Darrell Lupenui's Men of Waimapuna and Ke Ala O Ka Lauae (women), and Kumu Hula Colleen Aiu's Halau Hula O Maiki. Master of Ceremonies Tommy Taurima of the Polynesian Cultural Center described the program as truly an exchange of cultures between Polynesians. The audience clearly appreciated the performances. Part of the reason for the evening's success ean be attributed to Tomairangi Paki Te Anga, daughter of Dame Te Ata. She lived in Hawaii in 1983, studying hula with the late Aunty Maiki Aiu. Perhaps as a gift to those who helped her during her stay, their friendship and for her appreciation of Hawaiian dance, this concert had a special meaning for those who were fortunate enough to attend. The Maori portion of the concert presented a good slice of traditional and modern Maori song and dance, both poi and haka. Although for many in the audience the language differences and cultural styles might have been difficult to appreciate, but the program presented by the Maoris was totally absorbing, evenly paced and entertaining. Their harmonies in song and the choreography of both the men's and women's dance were well executed. It is hoped that future exchanges on this level may eontinue and even reach the neighbor islands, increasing the ties shared together as Polynesians.