Whaea Miriama Barton: Kapa Haka Exponent
Whaea Barton travelled to Gisborne on Wednesday to compete at Te Matatini Kapa Haka competition. The result – a Top 9 finish for her troupe, Te Hokowhitu a Tu, was a real bonus, on what has been an important personal journey. Whaea Barton reflected on her experience today:
Whaea, what have you been up to?
On Wednesday I traveled down to Gisborne for the National Matatini Competition. I belonged to Te Hokowhitu a Tu, my family group, which was one of fourty-two teams. I was called back to go and help with the group so for five months I’ve been traveling back to TokomaruBay every third weekend. As the event got closer, I started going down every weekend. We would leave after work on Friday, and be back on Sunday night.
It was an awesome experience. I was overwhelmed; it was a privilege to represent my iwi and my family. My ancestors were represented – pictures of my great aunt and aunt around the stadium, those women were great composers and leaders of kapa haka. It was a real privilege to take the stage with my family. Ten of us were direct descendants of earlier group members; the group has been in existence since the 1930s. I’ve represented Waikato groups, but this is the first time that I have had a chance to represent my family.
What was the result of the competition?
We placed in the top nine out of forty two teams. Some people say that we placed fourth, but it’s not for me to say whether or not that was the final result. To come in the top nine was an awesome feeling.
And what now?
Concentrate on HBHS kapa haka! We’ve got Regionals coming up at the end of this term, so we’ve got to get moving.
We congratulate Whaea Barton on her achievements with Te Hokowhitu a Tu, and look forward to seeing HBHS kapa haka go from strength to strength this year.