Ngā Tūmanako was originally founded for and by foundation students of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Hoani Waititi Marae.
The group aims to promote the survival of Te Reo Māori and the Māori culture through the medium of performing arts.
Last year was Ngā Tūmanako's fifth time performing at a national competition since their inception in 2005.
The group's tutors are Kawariki Morgan and Reikura Kahi. This year they are led by Te Raina Kaipara and Kawariki Morgan.
The three diamonds seen on their kapa haka uniforms represent the three baskets of knowledge. The colour of their uniforms also holds meaning; black represents the night, white represents the moon and red represents the earth.
This year, Ngā Tūmanako is sharing with us their waiata tira, 'Arohaina Mai' composed by Oriini Tipene Leach a founding member of the group.
