Pou Ariki Hemara-Daniels Claims Second Ngā Manu Kōrero Title

Last week, fourteen-year-old Pou Ariki Hemara-Daniels successfully defended his title at the prestigious Ngā Manu Kōrero speech competition in Whanganui. This event, celebrating its 60th anniversary, is Aotearoa’s foremost platform for young orators, showcasing diverse voices from across the nation. Hemara-Daniels, a student at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Rangi Āniwaniwa in Kaitaia, emerged victorious in the Sir Turi Carroll Junior English category, reinforcing his reputation as a formidable speaker.

The Ngā Manu Kōrero competition consists of four categories, with two for junior competitors and two for seniors. Hemara-Daniels triumphed in the Sir Turi Carroll category, which evaluates participants based on prepared speeches. The senior divisions, including Pei Te Hurinui Jones Senior Reo Māori and Korimako Senior English, introduce an impromptu component, challenging students to articulate their thoughts on a topic with only five minutes of preparation. As Hemara-Daniels prepares to transition into the senior division next year, he acknowledges the increased difficulty this will present.

In his own words, Hemara-Daniels emphasizes the importance of physicality during speeches. He stated, “Physicality can be a major point deduction or a major point enhancement. The more messier you are, the judges can’t really grasp on to your kōrero, so adding cleaner and tidy actions can explain more of your kōrero.” This insight reflects the nuanced nature of effective public speaking, where presentation complements content.

Despite feelings of anxiety before taking the stage, Hemara-Daniels found his rhythm. “Before I got on, not going to lie, I was actually really, really nervous,” he admitted. “The pressure was way higher than last year.” His topic, “Welcome to Hawaiki,” required him to adapt his speech from the regional competition, where it was originally titled “Welcome to the Far North.”

Hawaiki holds significant cultural meaning for the Māori community, representing not only a physical place but also a deep connection to ancestral roots. Hemara-Daniels elaborated on the concept of Hawaiki Hou, or modern Hawaiki, which has gained traction following the Hīkoi mō te Tiriti at the end of last year. “It’s more of the new world that us rangatahi and all the people that are here today can create for our future generations,” he expressed.

He describes Hawaiki as a realm where “our tamariki are fed and happy, where whānau don’t have to choose between putting food on the table and leaving the lights on.” This vision of Hawaiki Hou encapsulates hope for a future free from struggle.

Reflecting on his achievements, Hemara-Daniels feels a sense of responsibility. “In the future, I want to keep building these skills and use my voice for the benefit of my iwi and my wider community,” he stated. “My hope is that my journey can inspire other rangatahi to believe in themselves and know they can achieve it too.”

He expressed gratitude towards his support network, saying, “I just want to mihi to my whānau, my kura, and my teachers who stood by me and supported me all the way. Because these wins aren’t just mine; they belong to all of them too, because they believed in me and encouraged me.”

As Hemara-Daniels looks forward to new challenges, his commitment to using his voice for positive change resonates strongly. The Ngā Manu Kōrero competition continues to thrive as a vital space for young orators, empowering the next generation to articulate their thoughts and experiences.