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06 Pipiri (June) 2010

"Te Toka tu Moana."
The Rock standing in the Ocean.
This week's whakatāuki was explained by Ana Tapiata, nō Te Arawa me Ngāti Porou.

Being a pioneer any industry is hard work and for Merata Mita (1942-2010) it was particularly so, especially if you are holding a camera and recording events or historical injustices your country isn't willing to acknowledge. That was the case when she documented the 1981 Springbok Tour of New Zealand in Patu! and the removal of protesters from their lands, at Takaparawhā in Bastion Point Day 507. Her bravery and legacy is remembered by former colleague, fellow filmmaker and friend, Robert Pouwhare.

Iwi performed their music during the 1990s, and their self-titled album became a staple on Iwi Radio play lists. Songs such as E nga Rangatahi called for the young people of Aotearoa to embrace their Māoritanga, and the bi-lingual track Whakahokia Mai called for land to be returned to Māori.

Influences of the group in the early days included reggae, soul and hip hop. Justine Murray managed to catch up with the group's former front man, Kimo Winiata, at this years Pao Pao Pao and he explains why the group eventually broke up.

The Fresh Tour 2010 is a Toi Māori and Nga pou Kaituhi Māori initiative which had three Wellington-based poets, Tarah Ahkiau Rudolph, Troy Hunt and Rawiri James, visit schools in Whakatane to perform and run workshops with young people. Justine Murray found out more when she checked out one of their performances.

Waiata featured: Poi E as performed by The Patea Maori Club from the album The Patea Maori Club (1984)

He Taonga as performed by Whirimako Black from the album Shrouded in the mist - Hinepukorangi (2001)

Mo Ake, E nga Rangatahi, Kia Tupato by Iwi from the album Iwi (1998)