Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

20 Hakihea (December) 2009

This week it's our last programme for 2009. We feature highlights of the stories and interviews covered during the year.

Maraea Rakuraku attended the super city hikoi in Auckland and even though the weather packed in, that didn't deter thousands from protesting against the proposed plan to do away with the Māori Seats.

See images of the hikoi in the Te Ahi Kaa image gallery.

Dr Karina Walters of the Chocktaw nation puts the tribe's mana motuhake into practise, developing initiatives that benefits her people.

Justine Murray sat down with respected taa moko artist Mark Kopua, who explained the differences between kiri tuhi and taa moko.

2009 saw a myriad of awards given to Māori for their contribution in their chosen fields, including Katerina Te Heikoko Mataira,Timoti Karetu, Witi Ihimaera, and Te Wharehuia Milroy.

And then there's the heartfelt stories that have featured on the show through the yearl; Ngai Tahu kuia Lexie Starkey shared her life growing up in the southland and Sue Eddington shared stories passed onto her about life at Waihao Pa.

On the music scene, Justine caught up with young Sid, Deach, and Tyree a.k.a Smashproof while they enjoyed chart success with their hit song Brothers.

On behalf of the Te Ahi Kaa team - Have a great Xmas and new years!