Established in 2013, Te Piki Kōtuku o Ngāti Rongomai is the newest rōpū on the Te Arawa kapa haka scene. They made their debut at the 2014 Te Arawa Regional Competition.
The group was put together to provide pathways for uri to express their ahikā to Ngāti Rongomai through kapa haka, and strengthening the bonds of whānau and hapū within the iwi.
Their principal tutor is Tukiterangi Curtis. Assisting him is Rawiri Toia, Renata Curtis and Rehua Mihaka.
Te Piki Kōtuku o Ngāti Rongomai finished fourth at the 2014 regional competition, earning them a spot in the Te Matatini National Competition the following year.
Their performance is dedicated to the late Mauirora Kingi, a much loved Te Arawa leader who passed away last year. Their tribute to him begins with their whakaeke, composed by Pou Temara, 'Ko Te Pikikōtuku o Ngāti Rongomai'.
Their poi, Taku Poi Mahuika pays homage to kapa haka legend Taini Morrison, and her contribution to te ao kapa haka and to her tira, Te Mātārae i Orehu.
This year, they have chosen to share with the motu their mōteatea.