Haka Life - First Episode

Performing at the prestigious Te Matatini competition is the ultimate achievement for kapa haka groups around Aotearoa. Haka Life follows the challenges and triumphs of Tāmaki Makaurau-based group, Ngā Tūmanako. With 10 years of performance under their belt, Ngā Tūmanako achieved their first milestone moment reaching Te Matatini finals in 2015. Now, with their sights set on the 2017 competition, the group buckles down to prepare what they hope will be their best performance yet. In this episode, the team converges in Raglan for a wānanga to compose a competition-worthy waiata.

Every two years, thousands of people from all around Aotearoa sacrifice their summer months in the hope of performing at Te Matatini, the pinnacle of all kapa haka competitions. Each performer must give their all and endure the extreme highs and devastating lows that come with competitive kapa haka.

– Narrator Te Arahi Maipi introduces Te Matatini kapa haka competition

Key Cast & Crew

Glen Bates

Director, Camera Operator

Lise Cook

Director, Camera Operator

Kym Morgan

Producer, Line Producer, Subject

Te Arahi Maipi

Narrator

Kawariki Morgan

Producer, Subject

Reikura Kahi (née Morgan)

Subject