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

Max Cavalera of Soulfly (ex-Sepultura)

Max Cavalera of Soulfly (ex-Sepultura)Songwriter Interviews

The Brazilian rocker sees pictures in his riffs. When he came up with one of his gnarliest songs, there was a riot going on.

History Of Rock

History Of RockSong Writing

An interview with Dr. John Covach, music professor at the University of Rochester whose free online courses have become wildly popular.

Martyn Ware of Heaven 17

Martyn Ware of Heaven 17Songwriter Interviews

Martyn talks about producing Tina Turner, some Heaven 17 hits, and his work with the British Electric Foundation.

Michael W. Smith

Michael W. SmithSongwriter Interviews

Smith breaks down some of his worship tracks as well as his mainstream hits, including "I Will Be Here For You" and "A Place In This World."

British Invasion

British InvasionFact or Fiction

Go beyond The Beatles to see what you know about the British Invasion.

Jethro Tull

Jethro TullFact or Fiction

Stage urinals, flute devices, and the real Aqualung in this Fact or Fiction.