The NZDF Maori Cultural Group recently performed alongside 13 other nations at the 50th Anniversary of Malaysian Independence in KL. The group was a tri-service affair with members of the Navy, NZ Army and RNZAF represented. Here are some postcards from members of HMNZS Te Kaha while they were in Malaysia.
Chief Petty Officer Roy Wattie waiting to perform in Kuala Lumpur
From Chief Petty Officer Roy Wattie
Mon 3 Sept, 2007
With HMNZS TE KAHA's arrival alongside Lumut we were very enthusiastic and ready for the four hour bus journey to Kuala Lumpur for the Malaysian Independence 50th anniversary celebrations. Upon our much awaited arrival by the rest of the NZDF contingent at the Grand Seasons Hotel we were reunited once again as "Te Hora Whitu". We were briefed as to the events that would occur that evening, the Maori Cultural Group was given their rooms - which were to a very high standard. We then proceeded to what we thought would be our first training session but due to inclement weather we were unable to conduct our rehearsals, so it was back to the hotel we went for some deserved sleep.
Tues 4 Sept, 2007
After a 'hearty' breakfast we ventured off to what was to be a very long day of training and briefs. The best part was being able to check out where we were to perform after some slight changes to our bracket and long training periods the group was ready for a good sleep.
Wed 5 Sept, 2007
An early start to the day began with having to go through the opening and closing runs of the ceremony. Once this was conducted successfully we were free to do some shopping, with most of us checking out Chinatown where there were bargains to be had - some slick bartering skills were required but some good down-time prior to the full dress rehearsal tonight.
The dress rehearsal was a chance to see some outstanding costumes. We were dressed in full NZDF regalia, conducting the opening/ closing ceremonies in a seven minute bracket. It was a relief to have performed in front of such a crowd. Some of our group are starting to make friends with people from other countries and it's these international relationships and outgoing personalities that will set us in good stead for the rest of the Tattoo.
Friday 7 September, 2007
The morning was utilised by members of the MCG to see the sights that Kuala Lumpur had to offer, also, to indulge in some good shopping deals and test their bartering skills.
Before we knew it - it was time to depart for the Tattoo village. On arrival preps began in earnest, first dinner and then Moko’s for each performer, a quick warm-up of voices and what items we would do for the evening’s bracket - then it was Showtime. The opening ceremony was fantastic; it was quite enlightening to see the younger guy’s liaising well with the other international performers. The loud sounds of “Pakistan, Pakistan” ringing from the NZ tent brought laughter as “Taranaki, Taranaki” rang out straight after, as if to say both places are one in the same.
Our performance goes to plan and everyone is happy, “Pops” debriefs, then we are off on the bus back to the hotel for a well deserved sleep.
Saturday 8 September, 2007
Tonight’s performance is going to be a big one as we get a chance to perform in front of the King of Malaysia, the group is ready to pour it all on for him. Preparations fall into place nicely, everyone’s voices are “on-point” from the Wahine to the low blows, leads and high marks.
We march out to the opening ceremony to the most entertaining parade conductor this side of the Bombay Hills. The atmosphere is electric as we enter the stadium to perform our bracket; Pingu is on fire as our Kaea - our Waiata - is sweeter than a Te Puke kiwifruit and the Haka as fierce and as passionate as they come. It was a great performance and the closing ceremony is fun as we arrive back to the hotel fully satisfied.
Sunday 9 September, 2007
Tonight’s performance will be our last for the KLIT, after a big day of shopping and sightseeing we head out to the tattoo village and proceed to conduct our usual preps, dinner, mokos, change into piu-pius, sing a few Waiata and go over the bracket for the night. There are a few changes and we practice those to perfection. We head out to the opening ceremony to applause by our fellow international performers. The chance is taken to have photos with the other groups but all of this passes in a flash and before you know it we are out there on the stage showcasing Waiata and Haka in a highly energetic and satisfying performance.
The Closing ceremony was a lot of fun our group left a lasting impression in what can be only termed “controlled chaotic madness” and we are loving it. Rikki Gunn’s slide was a feature and Tarp’s and H’s running man displays were pure magic!
We can be happy in knowing that we have done our country and ship proud.
Monday 10 September, 2007
Today the group relaxed and did their final shopping and sightseeing until the formal dinner which was outstanding. The entertainment was great but the meal was something else. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it and then we retired to have a few quiet OJ’s at the Snuker bar.
See other postcards from:
LT Emma Gibbs
Leading Hand Jacquilin Merriman
Able Rate Eruera Shelford