Manu Taupunga ki Ruātoki was a Matariki 48 Hour Songwriting Challenge held at the beginning of June, where seven urban artists immersed themselves in the beautiful taiao of Te Urewera.
This wānanga, reminiscent of "City Slickers in the Bush," involved renowned Tūhoe artivist Tame Iti and music legend Whirimako Black guiding the artists through their backyard in Ruātoki, sharing stories of ancestral traditions, the taiao (environment), and their significance in gathering kai (food) and fishing. This wānanga aligned perfectly with that year’s Matariki theme, Matariki Heri Kai, set by Professor Rangi Mātāmua.
The wānanga resulted in the release of ‘Hine Mokemoke’ - the new waiata from artists TAWAZ, Jordyn With a Why, Mārei, MĀ, Chase Woods, Henare Kaa of Dillastrate, and Kings, created during this 48 Hour Songwriting Challenge.
“Manu Taupunga ki Ruātoki, doitz! Waimarie katoa tēnei hunga ki te noho tahi ki a Matua Tame me Whaea Whirimako. A weekend celebrating our history, our experiences and our future - perfect combo for songwriting” said Jordyn With a Why.
“‘Hine Mokemoke’ is that lonely little voice inside of us who cries out for real connections and longs for genuine relationships with one’s land and people - those present and those who are now shining down on us, up in the sky.
Like Matariki and the stars, allow ‘Hine Mokemoke’ to guide you back to your whenua, to your people, to your whakapapa.” - TAWAZ
