TYGA Receives Traditional Māori Welcome to New Zealand
kaiHaka wood- instrument musician Shane McClean hongis TYGA.
Hip Hop artist TYGA was “spiritually” moved by a traditional powhiri (Māori welcome) performed by kaiHaka when he
arrived into Auckland, New Zealand this morning with his entourage.
“It was a good response, good experience, really nice - spiritual,” said TYGA. “This is the first time I have
experienced a welcome like this.”
As is customary, kaiHaka welcomed TYGA with a wero (challenge performed by Warriors), mihi (speech of welcome), waiata
(songs) and haka. TYGA’s management responded thanking kaiHaka and noting how moved they were by the welcome.
kaiHaka leader Eruera Rarere-Wilton has led many haka powhiri for international celebrities and dignitaries and is
driven to do his part to give visibility to the Maori culture and values on the world stage.
“Our kaupapa (mission) is to share with visitors our core Māori values of manaakitanga (hospitality), whanaungatanga
(family values) and kotahitanga (unity). We want them to know what makes New Zealand special in this world - and that is
generous spirit of our people,” says Eru.
“We welcome visitors in the ways of our tupuna (ancestors) with Haka Powhiri (welcome ceremonies) to give an
unforgettable experience that guests take with them when they return home.”
TYGA was gifted a hand-made purerehua (bull roarer - traditional Māori wind instrument) from kaiHaka made especially for
him. He received a quick lesson in how to make a sound on the instrument before departing.
kaiHaka have performed haka powhiri for international music artists and dignitaries at the Auckland International
Airport and event locations including: Oprah Winfrey, Ed Sheeran, Rihanna to name a few, and earlier this month, CardiB
and the Jackson 5.
TYGA performs at the Trust Arena in Auckland City this evening.
HIGHLIGHTS VIDEO: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1bGvt4I_PlnQZqObFfpJ-eMT2oxg1DqMP
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