Watch Te Tū Mataora prove why they’re regional champs with powerful haka

Longstanding regional champions Te Tū Mataora have once again taken out the top spot at the Rangitāne regional kapa haka competition.

This year’s competition saw nine groups compete on the stage at Palmerston North’s Central Energy Trust Arena for just three spots at the national Te Matatini 2027 competition. 

Te Tū Mataora continued their dominance on stage with a powerful and emotional performance that wowed the audience and cemented their reigning champ status.

Clips of their winning performances have done the rounds online, including a moving waiata.

The group’s haka also stood out for being so powerful that it was hard not to pay attention to the mana on that stage.

Established back in 2008, the group’s latest win marks more than just another first-place title - it’s a new era for the ropū, with a third generation of tutors now stepping into leadership roles.

That transition was subtly acknowledged in their poi, where they referenced the “changing of the guard”.

The three ropū heading to the national competition are Te Tū Mataora, Te Tini a Rehua, and Te Whirikōkō o Rangitāne.

This year was just the second-ever regional appearance for Te Whirikōkō o Rangitāne, who secured their first spot at the national competition last year - with a strong continuation into 2026, this group is also one to watch.

Congrats to all who competed, and we can’t wait to see what you do on the national stage.