A waiata written by leading Waikato Artist Rākai Whauwhau, from the back of his own debut EP release ‘Toiora’ and the success of his earlier single ‘E Ihowa’ a household favourite. Whauwhau continues to move between kaupapa-driven spaces aligning with his upbringing and driven purpose. His songwriting contribution to the album ‘Songs of Rangiaowhia’ released earlier this year added strength to the 10-track collaborative collection alongside artists Mara TK, Ria Hall and Hawkins.

Also featured on the ‘Songs of Rangiaowhia’ album and now paired on this track is musician and producer Poihākena Reid who arranged the music for this perfectly matched clique, with both Whauwhau and Reid from Ngāti Hauā iwi. Reid is one of the youngest and strongest talents in Aotearoa, often traversing across the motu and overseas as an essential band member of Masaya and Black Comet led by Laughton Kora.

Completely in Te Reo Māori, the first beat guides an instant easy listening vibe while being carried by the strength of Whauwhau’s vocals from one kupu to the next. The trills and backing vocals infuse a sense of warmth and manaakitanga. As Poihākena Reid says, “I’m a sucker for that old school feel.”

Titled: ‘Te Tumuaki’ this waiata acknowledges the selfless leadership of Te Tumuaki o te Kiingitanga and it’s origin from Wiremu Tāmihana the first Tumuaki known as the ‘Kingmaker’ or ‘Peacemaker.’

“Wiremu can be described as a toki, a mighty adze who attempted to break through the turbulence of those times of intense political and social pressures, a shaper of the structures needed to navigate the onslaught of the storm of war, a servant leader of his people, his legacy worthy of this highest accolades.”

- T.C. Roa (Waikato-Maniapoto, Ngāti Apakura)

Supported by Te Tumuaki o te Kiingitanga, a waiata intended as a gift to the people.

An inspired waiata coinciding with the book launch of ‘Tāmihana - A Legacy of Servant Leadership in Aotearoa’ written by Jade Hohaia-Te Uri Karaka set for release on the 25th of June, 2024; tributing the legacy and life of the late Tumuaki Anaru Te Awaitaia Tāmihana, marking two years since his passing. Okioki atu rā e te rangatira rongonui.

Maranga, Te piki tūranga Maiea, Te Tumuakitanga Maiangi, Ko Wiremu Tāmihana Maranga Hauā e!

The lyrics reflect the essence of honouring the servant leader and peacemaker that was Wiremu Tāmihana. His legacy lives on in his descendants and iwi Ngāti Hauā, but also, the invitation is there for all of us to walk in this world, even as he did; with humility and whakapono. Overall, the release of this waiata is timely, kua tae te wā.

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