KAPA HAKA, MOTHERHOOD AND THE HEART OF THE WHĀNAU.

The article focuses on Kara Huata’s experience balancing competitive and social kapa haka—a traditional Māori performing art—with motherhood and pregnancy. Kara, a mother of three from Bridge Pā Ngāti Kahungunu, has performed extensively at Te Matatini, Aotearoa’s premier Māori performing arts festival, highlighting the intense demands of competitive kapa haka versus the more family-friendly nature of social kapa haka. She shares how performing while pregnant was supported by her group and beneficial physically and emotionally. The article also outlines midwifery grants available to students intending to practice rurally in New Zealand, emphasizing community support in both kapa haka and midwifery fields.