Purea Nei

About

To learn more about this waiata and view lyrics and sheet music, visit Aotearoa Songbook.

Hirini Melbourne was of Ngāi Tūhoe and Ngāti Kahungunu descent, and a revered Māori composer, musician, educator and stalwart revivalist who played a key role in the regeneration and preservation of taonga puoro (traditional instruments). He was also an advocate for the revitalisation of Māori language, custom and culture. This song was written for one of Hirini’s friends who was burdened with illness. In essence, the waiata seeks to uplift the mind, body, spirit and soul, so as to be cleansed of disconcerting hardships. It is a song that is widely sung, for many different occasions. Hirini’s music, steeped in traditional Māori artforms, emulates the sounds of the natural world. His ingenious lyricism and innovative blending of traditional Māori musical styles with contemporary influences make him one of the greatest Māori musicians of all time.

— programme note from Aotearoa Songbook