Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025 : The Olympics of Kapa Haka 

As the countdown to Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025 begins, the excitement is palpable. This biennial festival, often referred to as the "Olympics of Kapa Haka," is a celebration of Māori culture, artistry, and tradition.

From 25 February to 1 March 2025, the stage at Pukekura Park, New Plymouth, will come alive with the power of haka, the grace of poi, and the beauty of waiata. With a record number of 55 groups competing this year, this is an event you won’t want to miss. 

Festival organisers estimate this year’s event will bring 70,000 people to Taranaki and another 1.8 million live viewers via TVNZ 2,  TVNZ+ and the fan zones in Tamaki Makarau and Whanganui-a-Tara.

The Essence of Te Matatini

Te Matatini is more than just a competition; it’s a showcase of Māori excellence and a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Māori people. Each performance is a carefully crafted masterpiece, blending traditional elements like mōteatea (chants) and haka with innovative choreography and storytelling.

The festival is a platform for teams from across Aotearoa and Ahitereiria (Australia) to compete for the coveted title of Toa Whakaihuwaka (National Champion). 

The Adornments of Kapa Haka

One of the most striking aspects of Te Matatini is the visual spectacle created by the performers. From intricately carved heru (combs) to shimmering pounamu and bone pendants, the adornments worn by kaihaka (performers) are as much a part of the performance as the movements themselves.

These pieces are not just accessories; they are taonga (treasures) that carry cultural significance and tell stories of identity and heritage. 

Pounamu Pendants: The deep green hues of pounamu are a symbol of strength and connection to the land. At Moko Pounamu, we offer a range of handcrafted pendants that embody the spirit of kapa haka.

Our Koru Pendants, with their spiral designs, represents new beginnings and growth—perfect for performers stepping onto the national stage. 

Heru (Combs): Traditionally used to secure hair in place, heru are often intricately carved with patterns that reflect the wearer’s whakapapa (genealogy).

Our Heru collection features stunning bone and pounamu designs, ideal for adding a touch of elegance to any performance. 

Earrings: The sparkle of pounamu earrings catches the light with every movement, enhancing the visual impact of a performance. Our Tāwhiri Earrings, inspired by the unfurling fern frond, are a popular choice for kaihaka looking to complement their traditional attire. 

Moko Pounamu: Your Partner in Cultural Expression

At Moko Pounamu, we are proud to support the kapa haka community by offering pieces that celebrate Māori culture. Whether you’re a performer, a supporter, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of pounamu, our collections are designed to help you connect with your heritage. 

As we gear up for Te Matatini 2025, we invite you to explore our online store and discover the perfect taonga to accompany you on this journey. From pendants to earrings and heru, each piece is crafted with care and respect for tradition. 

Join the Celebration

Te Matatini is not just for the performers; it’s for everyone who values the richness of Māori culture.

Whether you’re attending in person, tuning in via Whakaata Māori, TVNZ 2 or TVNZ+, or watching from the fan zones, take a moment to appreciate the artistry, the passion, and the stories behind every performance. 

Let’s celebrate the "Olympics of Kapa Haka" together, honouring the talent, dedication, and cultural pride that make Te Matatini a truly unforgettable event. 

Visit Moko Pounamu today and find your perfect taonga to help celebrate Te Matatini 2025!