4 weeks ago we had the privilege of having the dual role of both guests and photographers. We’ve known Natalie for a long time, and got to know Meketu over the last couple of years. At their wedding we met Meketu’s family from New Zealand. They stood and sang together as a family at the ceremony, and after every speech at the reception. Then they performed the best haka we’ve ever seen! I think it’s safe to say that we were all a bit emotional after the most heartfelt speeches and music.
The Māori love song Pokarekare Ana was our favourite one his family sang, and it goes something like this:
Pōkarekare ana, ngā wai o Waiapu
Whiti atu koe hine, marino ana e.
E hine e, hoki mai ra
Ka mate ahau i te aroha e.
Tuhituhi taku reta, tuku atu taku rīngi
Kia kite tō iwi, raru raru ana e.
E hine e, hoki mai ra
Ka mate ahau i te aroha e.
E kore te aroha, e maroke i te rā
Mākūkū tonu i aku roimata e.
E hine e, hoki mai ra
Ka mate ahau i te aroha e.
Whati whati taku pene, kua pau aku pepa
Ko taku aroha, mau tonu ana e.
Which translates to roughly this in English:
The waves are breaking, against the shores of Waiapu,
My heart is aching, for your return my love.
Oh my beloved girl, come back to me
I could die of love for you.
I have written you a letter, and enclosed with it my ring,
So your people could see it how much I’m troubled for you.
Oh my beloved girl, come back to me
I could die of love for you.
The sun’s hot sheen, won’t scorch my love,
Being kept evergreen, by the falling of my tears.
Oh my beloved girl, Come back to me
I could die of love for you.
My poor pen is broken, my paper is spent,
But my love for you endures, and remains forever more.
Styling: Pia and Jade
Transport: Horsepower Limousines
Dress: Nouveau Riche Bridal
Make up: Tara Florence Artistry
Hair: Erika from Kriss Kross Barber Salon
Venue: Ceremony – All Saints Church, Ainslie. Reception – EQ Cafe
Cake: Little Bird Custom Cakes
Bouquets: Laurel and Lace
Entertainment: Simon Anau
