SIX60 accept prestigious award while touring Hawke's Bay

Matiu Walters, lead singer Six60 holding Waiata Maori Music award with from left, Ji Fraser, Marlon Gerbes, Eli Pawai, Chris Mac at Kahurangi Performing Arts centre.

SIX60 were presented yesterday with their award for Radio Airplay for the Year by a Maori Artist, which they won at the Waiata Maori Music Awards in September last year.

As they were unable to collect the award back then due to their touring schedule, the five-piece band attended the powhiri and karakea, held to honour the prestigious achievement.

Waiata Maori Music Awards Executive Director Ellison Huata said it was an honour to have the band collect their award in person while they were touring in Hawke's Bay.

She said they were positive role models for their students, as well as for Maori music as a whole.

Te Wānanga Whare Tapere o Takitimu Performing Arts School, Kahurangi Māori Dance Theatre, along with SIX60, their Los Angeles based management team and their opening act - Norwegian duo Nico & Vinz, among others were in attendance.