An extremely talented kapa haka group has gone viral for their powerful performance during this year's Koroneihana (coronation celebrations) - the last honouring the late Māori Kīngi Tūheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII.
Angitū o Tāmaki Makaurau are known for their incredible haka and their latest was no exception.
Instagram page @māoriworldwide reposted a clip of the moment from the event earlier this month, raking up 124k views.
And it’s no surprise. The rōpū perfected a mix of poi, mau rākau, haka and waiata in a beautiful display of passion.
“There's something so deeply spiritual which hits me in my heart when watching these amazing people,” one commenter wrote.
Another called it: “A blessing to witness 😍.”
“The best performance I've seen in person 😭😭😊🥰,” wrote a third.
A fourth added: "Stunning. Everything 🤎🤎🤎."
TikToker Tamaira Hook shared another clip of the incredible performance, writing: “Angitū sliding in sideways with that 360 whakaeke 👏🏽👌🏽🌿.”
The voices of every member of the rōpū blended beautifully as they echoed through Turangawaewae Marae.
Koroneihana 2024 marked the final annual celebration attended by Kīngi Tūheitia, who passed away last Friday at the age of 69.
The event also commemorated the 18th anniversary of his 2006 coronation.
Kīngi Tūheitia died just a few days later due to complications from heart surgery.
Since his death, an outpour of heartfelt tributes has flowed in, including Te Pāti Māori leader Rawiri Waiti who shared a photo alongside her message: “I love you and I will miss you King. Whoatu rā koe ki ō mātua tīpuna ki te pō”.
His service will take place on Thursday, where he will be laid to rest at the sacred grounds of Taupiri Mountain in Waikato.
