The official launch of the Tiaki waiata was one of the most talked about moments at the 2025 New Zealand Tourism Awards. The waiata, developed in partnership with acclaimed artist Maisey Rika and renowned storyteller Matua Joe Harawira, was met with awe across our tourism finalists, winners and industry partners.
The waiata was created as a tribute to the Tiaki Promise, a shared commitment to care for Aotearoa’s people, culture and environment. Its lyrics reflect a simple idea: that everyone who journeys through this country, whether visitor or local, holds a responsibility to protect it.
As a visionary lyricist herself, Maisey worked closely with Matua Joe and the Tiaki Working Group to bring that idea into sound. The result is a song that bridges art, culture and conservation, inviting listeners to see travel as an act of respect.
Commissioned by the Tiaki Working Group, the waiata adds a creative dimension to a growing movement that encourages responsible travel across the country. It reinforces the idea that looking after Aotearoa is not a campaign or a slogan, but a shared way of being.
NZ Māori Tourism, as part of Te Kāhui Tiaki – Tiaki Governance Group, helped to guide the project and is proud to see it brought to life. The waiata is now available on YouTube for listeners to enjoy, share and reflect on how to commit to the Tiaki Promise.
Click the image below to listen to the waiata now!
