Apii Avarua Kia Rangatira once again demonstrated their exceptional talent and hard work, securing first place in the CITC Pump the Beats – Te Emo’anga Tangi Kaara primary school competition at the National Auditorium on Wednesday night.

The evening showcased excellent skills and performances from all six participating primary schools: Apii Avarua, Apii Nikao, Apii Takitumu, Te Uki Ou, Apii Rutaki and Apii Arorangi. Apii Avarua stood out, placing first, followed by Apii Nikao in second and Apii Arorangi in third.

Apii Avarua mentor Steven Hiro lauded the team’s hard work, which contributed to their success despite the challenges faced from the beginning of their practices.

“The majority of the boys are all new to drumming. There’s about one or two of them that have been drumming for over a year now. Eight of them, it’s their first time drumming.”

Apii Nikao once again placing second. TEITIMOANA TAIRI/25061212

Hiro expressed that this year was a big one for him, as he prepared his students for the competition, with the majority of the drummers having little to no experience.

Balancing his professional responsibilities as a teacher with training the children for Tangi Kaara posed several challenges. The Rising Stars Championship also interfered with practices, as the boys’ involvement in the sport resulted in them spending less time with Hiro.

“But I am grateful for the opportunity and I want to thank the Lord for giving me the gift and talents that I get to share.”

Hiro was especially grateful for the many supporters behind Apii Avarua, the parents, principal, teachers, his family and CITC for sponsoring this event.

He stated that the drumming event fostered interest and growth among the students. In his fourth year of mentoring Apii Avarua, he has observed their eagerness and development, noting their consistent anticipation of this event.

Apii Rutaki proudly chanting at the CITC Pump the Beats – Te Emo’anga Tangi Kaara primary school competition at the National Auditorium on Wednesday night. TEITIMOANA TAIRI/25061207

Apii Rutaki’s team set a record by having five girls and five boys, making it the greatest number of females in a drumming team compared to other schools.

School deputy principal and teacher, Tatari Ngatoko, was beyond grateful for this event, giving the opportunity for young drummers to learn and expand their knowledge about local drumming.

Ngatoko was especially impressed with the students showing interest in drumming.

“I te akamataanga taii, kare papu I te akapeea, me haru I teia, inara, e rutu, e rutu, e rutu kia matau reira te rima. (From the start there were struggles, we weren’t sure on what to do, however, we just drum, and drum, and drum, so our hands can get use to drumming).”

With the help of teacher Ngatoko, Mari Repaio, Papa Nat, families and the rest of the teachers, Apii Rutaki was able to participate, demonstrate their hard work and show their dedication to keeping Cook Islands Maori drumming alive.

Despite receiving a consolation prize, the school is grateful and proud to have demonstrated to everyone the capabilities of their young children.