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Thousands of people, namely haka groups and spectators,
are leaving Rotorua today after the kapa haka nationals.
Te Matatini came to an end yesterday.
Rapaera Tawhai caught up with the new champions Te Waka Huia
at Rotoiti before they headed home.
Seeing off the national kapa haka champions.
We're speechless.
Te Waka Huia was announced yesterday the best haka group
out of 41 that all performed at the nationals in Rotorua.
We're happy because we have our father with us at the moment.
He seemed happy this morning.
Our win seemed to energise him, so that was good for the group.
Ngapo and Pimia Wehi formed the group.
Now it's left up to their children to run it.
This is the fifth time they've won the title,
and there's only one focus.
Our performance is in memory of our mum.
So that's been done.
Te Whanau a Apanui came second and three groups came third equal;
Te Iti Kahurangi, Whangara Mai Tawhiti and Tu Te Manawa Maurea.
Despite some grumbles about the results,
Waka Huia are still standing strong.
At the end of the day, kapa haka won. Maori won.
So we saw and heard all the groups
going hard onstage over the past few days, so yes.
I'd like to acknowledge all of those groups.
What are the group's plans now?
Look after dad. Take him home.
And to relax and recuperate as well.
Rapaera Tawhai, Te Karere.