As part of Kia Mau Festival’s He Ngaru Nui programme, Puana, takes its first international steps bringing the Aotearoa premiere from Mānoa, O‘ahu-a-Lua, Ka Pae ‘Āina o Hawai‘i. 

Puana is rooted in the exploration of the spiritual and artistic connections that we share with our ancestors. Music is a powerful modality of communication that speaks to the heart, mind, and soul. In this mo‘olelo (story), the mele (songs) reveal previously unknown facets of a grandfather’s journey to his mo‘opuna (grandchild). The mo‘opuna’s discovery of their ancestor’s past enriches their modern day endeavors. 

Puana also reflects on the accomplishments of haku mele (composers) and pu‘ukani (musicians) who were raised in that practice and those who traveled the world to share Hawaiian music abroad. Puana celebrates our musical heritage and legacy, reminding us that poetic compositions from the past serve as a foundation and guideposts for our contemporary artistic journeys. 

E pua ana ka puana a e mau ho‘i ka puana a e lohe ‘ia.

An Aotearoa New Zealand Premiere, Puana is presented by Ka Papahana Hana Keaka Hawai‘i - University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa.

He Ngaru Nui is more than just a collection of performances—it is a bold statement about the value and significance of Indigenous narratives. These shows take stories that sometimes feel small, intimate, or unheard, and amplify them on the grand stages they deserve. This programming strand honours the storytelling traditions of Māori, Pasifika and global indigenous cultures, while pushing the boundaries of contemporary performance. It’s about taking stories from our communities and sharing them with the world in a way that is both respectful and revolutionary.

Kia Mau Festival is at the forefront of contemporary Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and Indigenous arts in Aotearoa and beyond. We are innovators—pushing boundaries, redefining forms, and forging new paths with creative risk-taking at every step.Right here, right now, we bring together local, national, and international artists in Te Whanganui-a-Tara. We find the intersection where our stories intertwine, creating an experience that is uniquely 'local' yet unparalleled in Pōneke throughout the year.

Kia Mau Festival offers a truly unique experience, led by Tāngata Whenua, Tāngata Moana, and Indigenous voices at every level—from our leadership to our artists and audiences. Unlike any other festival, we are not just a platform for presentations; we are a hub for kōrero and whanaungatanga.