Te Aroha is a beautiful waiata (song) that speaks of love, trust, and peace for all. It was composed by the late Professor Morvin Te Anatipa Simon — a revered Maori composer, historian, choirmaster, and kapa haka leader. The lyrics are simple yet profound:
Te aroha (love),
Te whakapono (trust/hope),
Me te rangimarie (peace),
Tatou, tatou e (for us all).
This waiata is more than a song — it is a call for unity, grounded in kaupapa Maori values that remind us of our shared humanity.
The Power of Kapa Haka
Kapa haka, unique to Aotearoa, is a vital expression of Maori culture and identity. It is a living artform that weaves together whanaungatanga — relationships, belonging, and connectedness — in powerful and deeply felt ways. Through waiata, haka, poi, and movement, kapa haka helps to revitalise and strengthen te reo Maori, tikanga (customs and values), tribal histories, and ancestral knowledge.
More than performance, kapa haka holds the power of transformation — individually and collectively. It cultivates pride, resilience, and well-being, fostering a deep sense of identity and purpose. For many, it is a pathway to healing, empowerment, and cultural reclamation.
Kapa haka is a cultural gateway — one that enriches our identity as a nation and enhances our unique voice on the world stage. It reminds us of who we are, where we come from, and the strength that lies in standing together.