Our Whānau
Hawaiki TŪ is powered by a dynamic blend of dedicated members who collectively bring the vision of Hawaiki TŪ to life.
Together, they drive our mission to elevate Māori performing arts, blending innovation, creativity, and cultural excellence to inspire and connect communities worldwide.
Kura Te Ua
Founder | Artistic Director
Te Rarawa, Te Aupouri, Te Aitanga a Mahaki,
Te Whakatōhea, Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Tūwharetoa
She is the visionary founder of Hawaiki TŪ and a pioneer of Haka Theatre. As a renowned Performer and Artistic Director, she blends traditional Māori storytelling with contemporary performance, inspiring audiences worldwide and championing Te ahurea Māori (Māori Culture/Māori identity).
Hawaiki TŪ arts foundation
Hawaiki TŪ is guided by a dedicated board committed to advancing Māori performing arts. Their leadership ensures our kaupapa flourishes, enabling us to deliver world-class productions, empower rangatahi, and celebrate te ahurea Māori.
Te Kāhui Whakataki
Core Group
Te Kauhui Whakataki is a team of skilled practitioners who guide the creative vision, logistics, and development of Hawaiki TŪ’s Haka Theatre performances, ensuring smooth operations and connecting audiences with Te Ao Māori.
Jordan Walker
Producer
Ngāti Kahungunu ki te Wairoa, Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Porou,
Ngāi Te Rangi
With 14 years of experience in festivals and events, Jordan's work has grown significantly since completing the Māori Arts Internship through Toi Māori Aotearoa in 2020. They served as Line Producer for Te Tairāwhiti Arts Festival for four years and have collaborated with organisations both in Te Whenua Moemoeā and Aotearoa. Their experience includes work with Auckland Arts Festival, Splore, Touch Compass, Te Pou Theatre, WOMADelaide and Dark Mofo. Jordan is deeply committed to supporting marginalised communities, with a strong focus on access and authentic representation.
Kāhui ringatoi
Our performers are carefully selected from leading kaihaka who are expert practitioners in the diverse skills integral to Haka Theatre. We acknowledge and thank all the kaihaka who have contributed to the success and growth of Hawaiki TŪ. Your passion, skill, and commitment laid the groundwork of our journey.
Honouring Our Legacy Members
To our legacy members of Hawaiki TŪ, ngā pou herenga o te waka. Marcus Reihana, Te Ora Pahewa, Tangi-Maria Tutengaehe, Eds Eramiha, Kiwa Andrews. Carol Harding, Calvin Hudon. We acknowledge your unwavering dedication, creativity, and long-standing contributions to this kaupapa. You have carried the wairua, upheld the vision, and helped shape the foundations we now stand on.
We honour your commitment, your legacy, and the mauri you have woven into the journey of Hawaiki TŪ and beyond.