It is with immense gratitude that Shangri La, a center of the Doris Duke Foundation, was able to host the Māori Royal Family reception in Celebration of Mana Motuhake (Maori Independence) on June 11, 2024. It was an honor to have his Majesty Kīngi Tūheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII, Te Makau Ariki Atawhai Paki, and their daughter, Princess Puhi Ariki, and the All Kiingitanga delegation join us for a night of celebrating the arts and closing-out their time in Hawaiʻi as part of The 13th Festival of Pacific Arts & Culture (FestPAC).

Governor Josh Green and the First Lady were also in attendance for the evening along with Dr. Aaron J. Salā and Makanani Salā, who welcomed our esteemed guests with a beautiful oli.

Our honored guests were graced with performances by two Nā Hōkū Hanohano award-winning artists including Taimane Gardner who shared her mele and powerful ʻukulele style alongside guitarist Rachel Look. The soulful Josh Tatofi made a surprise appearance and thrilled our guests with some of Aoteroa’s favorite hits.

Mahalo to all who were in attendance and for sharing your aroha and cultural knowledge at Shangri La.

🎥Video: NMG Network
🎶Audio: “Jupiter” by 2024 Shangri La Artist-in-Residence, Taimane Gardner performed during the Reception