Strong values and discipline make a top warrior

Levi Whata, 18, has been announced as Top Warrior for 2015 at the prestigious Mokoia Island Mau Taiaha Wananga. Photo / Supplied

Thinking of others before himself, strong displays of whanau values, and natural leadership meant Levi Whata was chosen as Top Warrior for the 2015 Mokoia Island Mau Taiaha Wananga.

Senior tutor on the camp Eraia Kiel said Levi consistently showed these qualities.

"Thinking of others before himself is the key ingredient to any taiaha warrior, and that wasn't the first time he has shown that.

"Usually when we look for a top warrior they must show leadership qualities in all areas, like helping younger students. "He was always looking out for younger students, helping out with the kai when it came time to prepare for meals, and offering his hand in the kitchen.

"He has natural leadership qualities in terms of his skill with taiaha and kapa haka, he was leading the items and his tutors got him to fulfil leadership roles in front of his peers.

"He is a very humble young boy as well, that's one of the true qualities of a leader, you have to be humble."

The 18-year-old Tarawera High School student is of Te Arawa, Ngati Pikiao and Ngati Kahungunu-Ki Wairarapa descent.

Levi said he had worked hard to reach this stage in his training.

"It means so much to me, everything to me," he said.

"It's so prestigious to be awarded this honour, this accolade."

He had learned a lot from taking part, he said.

"It has taught me that those who are selfless go further in life. You need to be humble ... we all need that discipline. This has given me so much. I've grown so much in my culture."

Being named Top Warrior for 2015 made his Lake Rotoiti-based grandparents Lynne Te Maari-Whata and Brian Whata proud in the knowledge he is disciplined and prepared for the future.

Levi had been attending the course, founded by Te Arawa kaumatua Mita Mohi more than 30 years ago, since he was 11.

The camps have been running for over 30 years and are run by Mr Mohi's son Patrick, who teaches students the ancient art of fighting and discipline.

Levi has plans to train as a teacher or to further his te reo Maori studies.

Meanwhile, his doting grandparents are stoked with his success.

"We are very proud," his grandmother Lynne Te Maari-Whata said.

"I was in hospital at the time and when he rang to tell me I had tears in my eyes. I couldn't stop those tears of joy for him."

The course offered the students a wealth of experience to help them in the future, she said.