Wetini Mitai-Ngatai Photo: Supplied
With a legacy spanning 30 years, inckuding two national kapa haka titles and appearances often among the top at Te Matatini; Kapa Haka group Te Mātārae i-Ōrehu is retiring.
The Rotorua based group is well known for its intense, show-stopping performances showcasing mastery in Māori weaponry.
The kapa haka group has collaborated with the New Zealand Royal Ballet and performed at the 2011 Rugby World Cup and festivals around the world.
Since his uncle founded the group in 1994 and he took over shortly after, group leader Wetini Mitai-Ngatai has won male leadership five times at Te Matatini.
Wetini spoke to Culture 101’s Perlina Lau about the decision to retire the entire group, instead of just stepping aside.
Te Mātārae I Orehu Photo: Supplied
Te Mātārae I Orehu Photo: Supplied
Te Mātārae I Orehu Photo: Supplied
