Tūranga Ake is a Brisbane-based haka group, who takes to the Te Matatini stage for the second time today at Pūtaringamotu.
Formed in 2008, members of the group originate from a range of iwi, however the group has a strong Tairāwhiti influence.
The group made their performance debut on an Australian national stage in Canberra in 2012. Their performance made a lasting impression, placing second and qualifying for Te Matatini 2013.
Tūranga Ake aims to maintain their Māori customs, values and traditions through Māori performing arts, dance and drama. They strive to provide the vehicle to do so for all ages and further promote whakawhānaungatanga amongst the rōpū and wider Māori community residing in Brisbane, Australia.
Their tutors are Treyci Maynard, Andre and Gaylene Ahipene, and their leaders are Andre (Dre) and Gaylene (Ngati).