Auckland Arts Festival celebrates the life and music of one of our great Māori musicians, Mahinārangi Tocker. Of Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Tainui (Ngāti Maniapoto) Hebrew and Celtic descent, Mahinārangi was a true one-of-a-kind.

From folk to classical, Mahinārangi wrote more than 1000 songs exploring identity and aroha, which form a deeply compelling narrative of her own life experiences.

A champion for Māori music, gay rights and mental illness, her fearless approach to creativity is well respected among her musical contemporaries and globally acknowledged. Her live performances were characterised by energy, humour and a vocal deftness that was rich and mellifluous.

For two nights, the Great Hall comes to life with an incredible line-up to celebrate the music and memory of Mahinārangi. Featuring artists including Anika Moa, Annie Crummer, Shona Laing, Nadia Reid, Maree Sheehan, Charlotte Yates, Taiaroa Royal, Emma Paki and many more - this will be a night to remember.

 

“Music is an instrument I can use to find myself” – Mahinārangi Tocker