Biography
Willie Tekatoha hails from the Polynesian outlier of Mungiki in the Solomon Islands and currently lives in Auckland, New Zealand. With a deep connection to his cultural roots, Willie is not only a traditional musician but also serves as the player and manager of 'Kaumaakonga,' also known as KMK. The debut album of KMK received notable recognition, being reviewed by Songlines magazine and charting on the Transglobal music chart in 2019.
In addition to his musical pursuits, Willie plays a crucial role in the realm of cultural exchange. He is an integral part of Ethno New Zealand's organizing team and holds the position of coordinator for Ethno Solomon Islands. Balancing his commitment to cultural endeavors, Willie also manages a full-time professional role while simultaneously pursuing part-time studies at The University of Auckland. His academic journey is focused on a BA in Pacific Studies/Anthropology, reflecting his dedication to both his cultural heritage and academic pursuits.