Associate Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage, Kiri Allan, expressed her deepest sadness and deepest condolences on the passing of the esteemed kaumātua, Muriwai Ihakara.
“Muriwai’s passing is not just a loss for the wider creative sector, but for all of Aotearoa New Zealand. The country has lost a much-loved kaumātua, kaiārahi and tohunga,” said said Kiri Allan.
“His death leaves a huge void. Muriwai was a famous expert in kapa hapa and passionate and highly respected defender of te ao Māori.
“He was humble, generous and influential across generations. He was a mighty and powerful voice and he was instrumental in creating opportunities for Maori to thrive in the arts.
“Muriwai was Te Tumu Whakahaere Māori at Creative New Zealand for over a decade and led his own kapa haka group, Te Hikuwai, at the Maori performing arts festival, Te Matatini, which he also judged at several occasions.
“He was a kaumātua for Ngāti Pikiao and Ngāti Makino and was heavily involved with various Maori kaupapa entities and marae.
“The important legacy Muriwai left behind, alongside the mātauranga Māori he passed on, will continue to benefit future generations of Maori.
“My thoughts and aroha are with the whānau and their loved ones in Muriwai,” said Kiri Allan.
