The future of Kapa Haka depends on developing effective leaders and communities who will ensure its sustained continuation.
“We provide a platform for rangatahi to participate in Kapa Haka, and for Kapa Haka to act as a vehicle to engage youth leadership and further educational opportunities,” says Carl Ross, Te Matatini Te Manahautū | Chief Executive.
“We do this by supporting Te Mana Kuratahi National Primary School Kapa Haka competition and Ngā Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua National Secondary School competition. We also support tertiary institutions to provide contestable scholarships in traditional Māori performing arts.”
Contributing to youth development prepares rangatahi for tomorrow’s challenges, while sustaining a strong cultural identity that adds value to Aotearoa.
“Kapa Haka fosters a sense of identity and ensures our rich cultural heritage is passed down to future generations, preserving and reviving Māori culture, language, and traditions.”
While our goal is to increase the number of youth participating in Kapa Haka, the purpose is to increase kaihaka transitioning from the ‘school stage’ onto ‘senior stage’.
Support provided in the 2023-2024 financial year, enabled 45 kura (1,800 kaihaka) to participate in Te Mana Kuratahi Nationals, and 42 kura (1,620 kaihaka) to participate in Ngā Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua Nationals.
Three tertiary scholarships in traditional Māori performing arts were also distributed at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi, Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, and Te Wānanga o Raukawa. (Read Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi scholarships story here.)
Recognising rangatahi achievement – Te Hiranga Scholarship
In May 2024, in partnership with the NZQA, we acknowledged Awatea Rivers Hall (pictured) from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Hoani Waititi Marae as the first Top Subject Scholar for Te Ao Haka.
The inclusion of Te Ao Haka as a scholarship subject in 2023 recognises the positive impact that Kapa Haka has on the wellbeing and achievement of rangatahi.
Research shows that students who undertook Te Ao Haka Level 1-3 Achievement Standards and/or Māori Performing Arts Levels 1-3 Unit Standards over the last six years have generally achieved better NCEA results than those who did not.
“In addition to the NZQA Top Scholar Award, Awatea received a further scholarship and summer internship with us,” says Carl.
Working collaboratively with other agencies like NZQA supports our shared commitment to increasing engagement, opportunities, and outcomes for all.