Q&A: Kahurangi Maxwell

Kahurangi Maxwell

A new kind of star for Te Matatini
New to the world of television, but certainly no stranger to kaphaka, Kahurangi Maxwell born and raised in Ohinemutu, of Ngati Whakaue and Ngati Rangiwewehi whakapapa, shone off the stage just as bright as she does on the stage. In her debut role as a television presenter, many in the business are touting her as an upcoming star in the television broadcasting industry. She shares her story with Mangai Nui about taking on Te Matatini 2015 in a new way.

How did you come to be one of the presenters on Te Matatini 2015?
I had the privilege of working with the producer of the Te Matatini broadcast Bailey Mackey with the show Te Kapa and I had mentioned that myself and Chey weren't performing at this years competition and the timing couldn't have been better as he was going into a meeting to discuss the 'team' he wanted to front the broadcast.

What were your initial thoughts when approached?
When the role was officially given to both Chey and I we were humbled and excited to be given the opportunity. I also felt a little nervous and anxious as I am aware of the huge reach this has and also being mindful that Kapa haka watchers are very particular with what they want to see and hear. Overall I was honoured and happy to know that although this would have been my first Matatini not performing, I was still able to go, enjoy and also experience what happens on the other side.

There has been an overwhelmingly positive response to you presenting Te Matatini, how does that make you feel?
I am very grateful for the feedback both good and bad, but it is nice to know that people enjoyed the broadcast. It was an awesome experience and the positive response is really humbling.

You're obviously used to performing on stage, what was it like not being there this year?
It was very different not being on stage but it was good to be backstage and witness what happens to make the event tick over. It gave me a true appreciation of the commitment and effort every ropu puts into their performance. As a kaihaka I was able to relate to what it felt like when they stepped off the stage and it is amazing. There were moments where I would have got itchy feet, but then I remembered the long hours of practicing and commitment and I had a good break this round.

Overall, what was it like for you to present to the country and the world, the best of kapahaka?

It was awesome! There were nervous times knowing that this was going to the world, but as I interviewed each kapa I kept in mind that I was just catching up with whanau and friends.
We were live on air for four days for 11 hours each day, and this was also the first time the prelims had been broadcasted so it was definitely hard mahi, but it was also a great experience and being a part of showcasing the best of kapa haka to the world was a privilege.