A 120-strong group of Tainui elders have paid tribute to the late Princess Kiritokia ete Tomairangi Paki at Te Papa Tongarewa's Kaumatua Kapahaka Festival.
Paki, who passed away in April, was the sister of Māori King Tuheitia Paki.
Aged from their 60s to their late 80s, the Waikato Taniwharau Kapahaka gather every Wednesday at Waahi Paa to practice for the event, which was held as part of Te Papa's Matariki celebrations.
Tutor Turongo Paki, who is also the King's nephew, told Three's The Hui the kaumātua are still young at heart.
"They're like little kids when they come to practice, so it's nice to see them in that way."
Waikato Taniwharau o Tainui were the crowd favourites at the Matariki Festival, drawing a crowd of supporters including Hauraki Waikato MP Nanaia Mahuta and Maharaia Paki, the son of the late Māori Queen.
Tomairangi Paki was a beloved figure in Tainui and was renowned for her dedication to revitalising kapa haka.
The Hui
