Raggamuffin 2014: Groundation look forward to first NZ show

HIGH ENERGY: Te Kawana Haereiti says Rotorua audiences can expect a big show when Groundation perform at Raggamuffin. PHOTO/SUPPLIED

Te Kanawa Haereiti might not have been to Raggamuffin before, but he's heard plenty about the "phenomenal vibe" of the festival.

So the American-based musician can't wait to hit the stage with band Groundation in Rotorua on February 1.

Haereiti has strong links with New Zealand. While he was born and raised in the United States, his father is Maori hailing from Maniapoto and there was always a strong Maori influence growing up, Haereiti said.

He describes Groundation as having a "unique sound" - describing it as a type of reggae most people hadn't seen before.

"It's high energy and incredible musicianship. We really pump each other up ... it's a big sound."

Haereiti became involved about six years ago when a room-mate mentioned the band was in need of a drummer.

He said the band approached him and, after a brief conversation with his wife, he jumped at the chance to join them.

"It's been a crazy, wild ride."

The group tour regularly - hitting the road for four to five weeks at at time before taking a similar amount of time off.

It's a long way from his early days performing as a tot in the Polynesian review shows in Las Vegas where they'd perform Maori stick games and poi shows in front of tourists.

Haereiti said his love of music had been there for as long as he could remember, with his father a guitar player and singer.

"It's part of me."

He said he couldn't wait to show the rest of the band some of the New Zealand culture.

"We are honoured to be considered to play at Raggamuffin."

Haereiti said many Rotorua people probably didn't fully comprehend what a talented line-up was on display at Raggamuffin - citing band Morgan Heritage and Damian Marley as two outstanding talents.

The two-day reggae festival takes place on Friday, January 31, and Saturday, February 1, at Rotorua International Stadium. This year organisers have spread the headline acts across both days.

Tickets for Raggamuffin 2014 are available through Ticketmaster 0800 111 999 or www.ticketmaster.co.nz.