Moana & the tribe - Ozzie bound!

Kia ora petals!

Apologies for being offline but due to the recent arrival of my delightful wee daughter, I've been otherwise occupied. However, our little family is gradually getting back into the groove. Last week, we flew to Wellington for the NZ Art Laureate Awards where I, as a past recipient, presented the stunning artist Shane Cotton with his award. We had an awesome night catching up with some of N.Zs most incredible artists - as well as with our own friends who are Wellington-based. 

Today, we just flew back from Napier where I was presented with an Industry Award at the Maori Waiata 2008 Awards. This new event was staged in the Hastings Opera House as part of the Takitimu Arts Festival - and tell you what, I haven't laughed so much for a long time! The M.C, one Wiremu Winitana, was the funniest person I have come across and had everyone in fits. As well, there were performances from some wonderful artists such as she of the divine voice - Taisha and upcoming rapper Young Sid. I was greatly honoured to join a very iconic group of people who were nominated recipients for some special awards. It is always so touching to know that someone or some others sequestered in a room somewhere had a discussion that you are worthy of such recognition. 

The Takitimu Arts Festival, under the leadership of Tama Huata, continues - and in sunny Hawkes Bay, its looking like a great festival to hang out at.

Next week, of course, we head off to Melbourne where I am rapt to be playing alongside other NZ artists such as Kora, Pacific Curls and Ladi6 as part of the Australian World Music Expo. I hope to catch up with gorgeous Archie Roach and check out some of our Koori brothers and sisters. All the details are below!

I opened this blog with a couple of fotos from one of the highlight concerts of our recent tour of Europe - the fabulous and extremely glamorous Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. We can't wait to do our thing in Australia. If can join us, please do - we'd love to see you on Sunday night, November 23 at the Victoria Arts Centre in Melbourne.