TE MATATINI’S STRIKING ‘WE BELONG’ BRINGS UNITY WITH CORRELLA & L.A.B
In an evocative tribute, Te Matatini proudly unveils We Belong, a mesmerising waiata (Māori song) that embodies the essence of unity and cultural pride. Crafted by the dynamic Corrella and L.A.B, this track resonates with the spiritual and communal spirit of Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025.
Its fusion of rich harmonies and reggae-infused warmth channels the power of kotahitanga (unity), embracing all who connect with Māori performing arts.
Led by L.A.B frontman Joel Shadbolt and Pipiwharauroa & Ngawaiwera Campbell (Corrella), the waiata was born in Te Whanganui-a-Tara before finding its final form in Tāmaki Makaurau. The process mirrored its message—Te Matatini belongs to everyone, no matter their background.
NO MATTER WHERE YOU’RE FROM, TE MATATINI WELCOMES YOU
While most festival anthems lean into te reo Māori, We Belong balances its linguistic roots with English, ensuring that even those unfamiliar with the language feel included. It’s a soundtrack for the 70,000-strong crowd in attendance and the millions tuning in worldwide.
“This song is about belonging,” says Corrella’s Pipiwharauroa Campbell. “No matter where you’re from, Te Matatini welcomes you.”
Aotearoa’s cultural heartbeat shines through every note, carrying the spirit of Te Matatini far beyond the festival stage.
ABOUT TE MATATINI
Te Matatini is the pinnacle of kapa haka, where elite teams bring fierce performances, rich harmonies, and powerful storytelling to the stage.
Since its 1972 debut in Rotorua, the festival has evolved into a national spectacle, drawing thousands of performers and fans.
Renamed in 2004, Te Matatini now rotates hosts, showcasing diverse iwi and their traditions. Every two years, teams push artistic boundaries, blending innovation with deep cultural roots to claim the coveted Toa Whakaihuwaka title.
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ABOUT CORRELLA
Corrella brings a sun-soaked fusion of reggae, funk, soul, and pop, creating modern anthems that hit straight to the heart. Their breakout hit, Blue Eyed Māori, ruled 2023, holding the Number One spot for 50 weeks.
Siblings Pipiwharauroa and Ngawaiwera Campbell, alongside guitarist Te Naawe Tupe, craft infectious melodies built for good vibes.
Their latest album, Skeletons, captures their signature warmth, proving Corrella is a force in Aotearoa’s thriving reggae scene.
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ABOUT L.A.B
L.A.B weaves reggae, blues, funk, and rock into a sound that keeps fans hooked. Formed by drummer Brad Kora in 2017, the band includes his brother Stu, Ara Adams Tamatea, Miharo Gregory, and frontman Joel Shadbolt.
Their hits Why Oh Why and In The Air have dominated the charts, while five platinum-selling albums prove their staying power. With L.A.B VI, they continue pushing boundaries, cementing their status as one of Aotearoa’s most dynamic bands.
