Album: Poi E (1982)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • The lyrics are entirely in Māori, and the song topped the New Zealand pop chart in 1984. The words were written by Ngoi Pewhairangi, and the music was written by Dalvanius Prime, who died on October 3, 2002 at the age of 54. He made great contributions to his Patea community, to Māori culture, and to New Zealand's national identity. This song was his way of giving courage and inspiration to confused young urban Māori. >>>
    Suggestion credit:
    Jason - Hamilton, New Zealand

Comments: 4

  • Fieron from New ZealandI’m not Māori but I love the song
  • Ben from New Zealand Some would say it's a song that represents nz I love it so much
  • Jeanne from Honolulu, HiThis song & video are very appealing to me - blending traditional ways with the urban setting - and the symbolic meaning of the twirling poi balls as a circle of protection. When the people are walkaing together down the street in unity with their poi balls spinning and the traffic and all the other modern-day stuff whizzing past them, there is a joyfulness in their steadfast unity. It says "we are valuable" and they radiate love.

    Wonderful video that gladdens my heart.

    Jeanne
  • Abigail Werahiko from Rotorua, New ZealandThis is one of the best songs that new zealand would eva hear.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

How The Beatles Crafted Killer Choruses

How The Beatles Crafted Killer ChorusesSong Writing

The author of Help! 100 Songwriting, Recording And Career Tips Used By The Beatles, explains how the group crafted their choruses so effectively.

Jimmy Jam

Jimmy JamSongwriter Interviews

The powerhouse producer behind Janet Jackson's hits talks about his Boyz II Men ballads and regrouping The Time.

Harry Wayne Casey of KC and The Sunshine Band

Harry Wayne Casey of KC and The Sunshine BandSongwriter Interviews

Harry Wayne Casey tells the stories behind KC and The Sunshine Band hits like "Get Down Tonight," "That's The Way (I Like It)," and "Give It Up."

Edie Brickell

Edie BrickellSongwriter Interviews

Edie Brickell on her collaborations with Paul Simon, Steve Martin and Willie Nelson, and her 2021 album with the New Bohemians.

Timothy B. Schmit

Timothy B. SchmitSongwriter Interviews

The longtime Eagle talks about soaring back to his solo career, and what he learned about songwriting in the group.

Tim Butler of The Psychedelic Furs

Tim Butler of The Psychedelic FursSongwriter Interviews

Tim and his brother Richard are the Furs' foundation; Tim explains how they write and tells the story of "Pretty In Pink."