go viral on TikTok
Te Matatini 2023 has been hailed as a huge success, drawing viewers to its live coverage and setting social media abuzz with epic performances, celebrity cameos and a visit from a Hollywood star.
But one event at the beginning of festivities has drawn comments from across the world and has attracted the attention of millions - for an altogether different display.
The immaculate tailoring sported by many of the tāne in attendance caught viewers’ attention but it was the men of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei that stole the show, with one clip shared on TikTok racking up over two million views since it was loaded yesterday.
The video, recorded during the pōwhiri for Te Matatini and set to rapper 50 Cent’s 2003 hit P.I.M.P., showed Te Kura Taiaho Kapea, Ngarimu Blair, Taiaha Hawke and other senior figures in the Tāmaki Makaurau iwi dressed immaculately in sharp suits and hats - and had many reaching for the smelling salts.
Link to videos and article: Te Matatini: Men of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei go viral on TikTok - NZ Herald
