![Te Korou Whangataua, centre, male leader of Te Rangiura o Wairarapa, drew for first-place manukura tane [male leader] in the pool rounds. PHOTO/ERICA SINCLAIR](https://dw35i5ezvh1dd.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/wta230223fnKapaHaka3.jpg "wta230223fnKapaHaka3.jpg")
Despite not making the finals, local group Te Rangiura o Wairarapa picked up awards at their second Te Matitini, the national kapa haka competition.
The group drew second place for the best haka in the pool rounds, and Te Korou Whangataua drew for first-place manukura tane [male leader] in the pool rounds.
When Te Rangiura o Wairarapa was formed in 2015, no Wairarapa kapa haka had performed at Te Matatini for two decades. More than 40 teams from across New Zealand to Auckland to compete in the prestigious event.
Eastern Bay of Plenty-based group Te Whanau a Apanui were crowned 2023 champions.
Te Matatini chairman Selwyn Parata congratulated all the kapa [teams] after the competition. “You have demonstrated excellence and showcased the ihi me te wehi – the power and charisma of te ao Maori [world view].”
