Wawata

Join us for an exhibition honouring the life and legacy of Maui Kararai Prime, also known as Dalvanius Prime.

Born on 16 January 1948, in Pātea, and passing on 3 October 2002, Dalvanius’s journey is one of inspiration and impact. As one of 11 children, he grew up in a musical household, attending Church College of New Zealand in Hamilton during his high school years.

His musical career took off in the late 1960s in Wellington after winning a talent competition on the 2ZB radio station.

He was involved with the Shevelles, a Māori female vocal band, before forming The Fascinations and touring Australia. He gained fame for recording Poi E with Ngoi Pēwhairangi for the Pātea Māori Club, which brought the small town of Pātea into the spotlight.

Over his career, Dalvanius appeared on TV, released numerous singles and albums, and even founded his own record company, Maui Records. He co-wrote songs for Prince Tui Teka and was a staunch advocate for Māori language revitalisation.

Dalvanius was also passionate about supporting rangatahi and helping people in court cases involving domestic violence. In 1999, he stood for Parliament, further highlighting his commitment to his community and causes. His contributions to music, culture, and social justice remain an iconic part of his legacy.

This exhibition offers an engaging journey from Dalvanius’s early days in Pātea to his rise in the music world. Discover his significant contributions to music, including the iconic hit Poi E, and view personal items that reflect his incredible journey. Learn about his advocacy for te reo Māori, his support for domestic violence, and his commitment to community service through his political efforts. Engaging quotes and treasured taonga offer a deeper understanding of his impact on both culture and social justice.

Dalvanius Prime is a true icon. His story is one of passion, talent, and unwavering dedication to his people and culture.