Te Kapa Haka o Te Koutu crowned national champions

Te Kapa Haka o Te Koutu from Rotorua have officially emerged as the top kapa haka in Aotearoa. According to a report by RNZ on 8 July 2026, the group secured the premier position following an intense three-day competition at Te Tāwharau o Ngā Waka. The event showcased the height of Māori performing arts, featuring more than 40 different groups from across the country. The competition was a significant display of cultural excellence and community dedication, concluding with the Rotorua-based ensemble being recognised for their superior performance. While the detailed scores and full list of category winners were not immediately provided in the community update, the victory for Te Kapa Haka o Te Koutu marks a significant achievement for the Rotorua region and the performers involved. The three-day event, Te Tāwharau o Ngā Waka, serves as a vital platform for kapa haka groups to demonstrate their mastery of traditional and contemporary Māori performance. As the newly crowned champions, Te Kapa Haka o Te Koutu represents the ongoing vitality of kapa haka within Aotearoa, continuing a legacy of excellence in te reo Māori and performance arts that resonates throughout the national community.