Te Whānau Kapa-Kingi are rangatahi leaders making waves in te ao Māori, through the movement for Te Tiriti justice and for Mana Motuhake. With whakapapa to Waikato and Te Tai Tokerau, they carry a message of unity, strength, and vision — a call to action that challenges and inspires rangatahi and iwi alike.

Led by Tukiterangi and Renata Curtis, this whānau blends kapa haka excellence with a passion for hauora. With strong Te Arawa roots, their rangatahi are driving a bold new wave of Māori leadership. Expect kōrero, haka, and a heart-pumping show that fuses culture and wellbeing in a way that will inspire and uplift.

Straight from Te Waipounamu, Te Whānau Cassidy bring the mana and wairua of the south. Komene Cassidy and Paulette Tamati-Eliffe have championed te reo and tikanga Māori for decades, leaving a legacy now carried forward by their tamariki. A celebration of intergenerational leadership, pride in whakapapa, and whānau strength.

Te Whānau Walker bring a fresh wave of rangatahi leadership. Raised in the legacy of Tony and Ngaria Walker, their tamariki stand strong as tutors, composers, and kaiako, using haka to inspire unity, ignite pride, and drive transformation. Rangatahi  who embody their culture with fierce passion and an unwavering commitment to their communities.

Te Whānau Webster live and breathe haka — it’s in their blood, their whakapapa, and their everyday life. Guided by the legacy of their parents, they carry the pride of Te Arawa, Tūhoe, and Te Whānau a Apanui onto every stage they step on. From wānanga to cultural festivals, from musicals to national competitions, their mahi showcases the power of haka to connect, uplift, and inspire generations.

Ako Ararau ki te Koroneihana will be guided by two remarkable rangatahi whose voices and presence reflect the strength, energy and future of te ao Māori.

Fearless, articulate, and grounded in her whakapapa — one of the most influential young leaders of our time. Champion for te reo, rangatahi, and Māori rights, her voice echoes the legacy of Kīngitanga!

Storyteller, innovator, and leader with heart — from viral reo Māori content to a 200km hīkoi raising over $115k for cyclone relief. A true rangatahi powerhouse!

With these two incredible MC at the helm, Ako Ararau ki te Koroneihana will be led by insight, inspiration, and undeniable rangatahi power.