Powhiri at Refugee Centre for United Nations High Commissioner

The King's College Kapa Haka group was very privileged to be invited to perform the formal powhiri at the Mangere Refugee Centre for Antonio Guterres, the Unted Nations High Commissioner for Refugees who heads one of the world’s principal humanitarian agencies.

Fourteen senior members of the Kapa Haka group, along with their tutor, Janine Tuateka put on an outstanding performance to welcome the High Commissioner to New Zealand. The dignitaries were called on with a karanga which was followed by Toia Mai, a choral item ending with a fierce rendition of the school haka.This was a new experience for Antononio Guterres and his official party.

Mr and Mrs Kelley’s Farewell

On Friday, 27 February, the full Kapa Haka group played a key role in the initial part of the Friends' Association farewell to Mr and Mrs Kelley. The 2009 female leader of the group, Tiana Kairua, called the guests into the Great Hall and the 50-member Kapa Haka Group followed with an impressive Haka powhiri (welcome chant) combining Toia Mai and Kamate Kamate. Teina Clarke, the 2009 male leader, led the boys in a stirring King’s College Haka at the conclusion of Mr Kelley’s speech.

The King’s College Kapahaka group are busy preparing for their performance at the Polynesian Festival at 9.00am, Friday 29 March.

Mr Ken Carrignton
TIC Kapa Haka