Conscious of the lack of serious inquiry into Kapa Haka, the CEO of Te Matatini Inc, the National Organisation for Kapa Haka in Aotearoa New Zealand approached Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga, New Zealand’s Maori Centre of Research Excellence (NPM), to make a start on rectifying this situation. This programme of research seeks to better appreciate the value and benefits of Kapa Haka to our present context and, importantly, future vision, in turn providing clear evidence and well-articulated arguments required to support balanced decision-making, investment and future development.
This is an ongoing and largely unfunded programme of work. If you are a student or researcher and have an interest in any aspect of kapa haka research we are keen to hear from you. Please contact us at email: research@maramatanga.ac.nz
Overview report
Nikora, L.W., Meade, R., Hall, M., Bowden, L., Selby-Rickit, T.H.R., Mikaere, T.M., Te Huia, A., & Fox, R. (2022). The Value of Kapa Haka – An Overview Report. Auckland, NZ : Ngā Pae o te Māramatanga
Technical reports
Links to our researchers in the media
The Spinoff 30 August 2022 The power of kapa haka can change the future of Aotearoa
E-Tangata 10 July 2022 The power and purpose of kapa haka
Newshub 27 July 2022 Academics are questioning why Te Matatini isn't receiving equitable funding to those also in the performing arts sector