Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025

Te Matatini may be over, but the excitement remains as we eagerly await the next host location. It’s the ultimate celebration of being Māori—embracing our culture through choreography, vocals, kākahu, and grace. How do you top that?

This week, we caught up with current Board member Ihaka Griffin-Mathews, a current Board member of Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, who performed at Te Matatini with roopu Kia Ngāwari. This kapa-ā-iwi has strong connections to Ngāti Koata and Ngāti Toa Rangatira.

Kia Ngāwari Kapa Haka Roopu

Ihaka descends from Toa Rangatira through Ngāti Te Maunu and Ngāti Kimihia, tracing his whakapapa to Pīkauterangi, Te Rangihīroa, Hanikamu Te Hiko, and Te Kanae.

The journey to Te Matatini was no small feat. Kia Ngāwari dedicated six months to preparation, with training intensifying as the competition neared. Members balanced kapa haka with mahi, whānau, and other commitments. For Ihaka, returning from kapa haka retirement for this campaign was a personal challenge—motivating him to get fitter, lose weight, and strengthen relationships within the roopu.

Reflecting on the experience, Ihaka highlights the electric atmosphere, stunning weather, and the overwhelming pride in being Māori. He recalls the powerful Te Matatini pōwhiri, the mesmerizing poi manu, and the manaakitanga of the hau kāinga. Watching other kapa haka groups, exploring the 100+ stalls, and reconnecting with whānau from Taranaki and across the motu were also standout moments.

One of his most memorable experiences was leading and representing his roopu onto his Ngāti Tama marae, Pukearuhe. Delivering his whaikōrero and performing his own mōteatea—honouring the shared whakapapa of Ngāti Tama, Ngāti Koata, and Ngāti Toa Rangatira—was a deeply significant moment.

Spending a night together at Takapūwāhia Marae further strengthened the ties between Ngāti Koata and Ngāti Toa Rangatira, weaving together their shared narratives and aspirations on the Te Matatini stage. He also acknowledges the warm hospitality of Ihaia Ropata and Te Kairangi o Poutama at Aotea College during the practice session.

We extend our appreciation to all whānau who took the stage and contributed to yet another unforgettable Te Matatini festival.