The Tūtira Mai Cyclone Gabrielle Relief Concert was held yesterday, 19th March, at Pipitea Marae in Wellington, and was supported by many of the Wellington, Hawkes Bay, East Coast, and international communities.
As the title Tūtira Mai, the night was a testament to giving within the spirit of aroha, unity, and mana.
The concert had a stellar lineup with SOUNZ composers Troy Kingi, Louis Baker, Kirsten Te Rito, Amba Holly, AJA Wairere Ropata, Mere Boynton, Ngahiwi Apanui and our very own Kaihautū Puoro Māori Toni Huata and Sianne. MC'd by The Māori Side Steps (Jamie McCaskill and Regan Taylor) and SOUNZ He Reo Tawhito host Crystal Edwards aka Kiino Krystal. The night was uplifting, entertaining and special.
The support around the concert was also phenomenal. A full house in the whare and the foyer where all the hāngi merchandise — Tūtira Mai t-shirts and tote bags (ongoing purchases through the Print Room for the next two weeks) and Ernesto's raffle sold out — and outside the barbecue ran throughout the night. Such a warm atmosphere for a great cause that doubled the target figure of 20k to 40k raised and counting.
Umbrellaed by Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Whanganui ā Tara and supported by many organizations including SOUNZ, Pipitea Marae Trust, Tāwhiri, Wellington City Council, Ticketspace, Te Reo Irirangi ki te Upoko o te Ika, Ati Awa Toa Fm, Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori, Te Arahanga o Ngā Iwi, Te Wānanga o Raukawa, Te Rōpū Pākihi, Ernesto's Resturant, Matrix Digital, AV Media, Flying Colours, Phantom Billstickers, Print Room, Hire Master, Ngāi Tauira, Hukarere and all the volunteers. Many gave their service for free or discounted to contribute towards the kaupapa.
All proceeds will go the Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi Incorporated to distribute to all throughout the affected region.
Tūtira Mai e te iwi, tātau tātau e.