Three Star Nation: Tā Mē “Vaka Paopao”

The Three Star Nation project was created to pay homage to past composers from the Village of Fineone Hakupu-Atua in Niue. In this series, you will indulge in a serving of authentic Niue Song & Dance, promoting intergenerational learning and the preservation of Vagahau Niue through the Performing Arts. 

This talented community ensemble is a make-up of Hakupu descendants from all parts of Auckland, Wellington, Dunedin & Niue. Music & Choreography by the Hakupu Youth NZ Creative Arts Team: Creative Director Leki Jackson-Bourke, Assistant Director Haanz Fa’avae-Jackson,  Joanna Mika-Toloa, Petmal Petelo Lam, Candy Tusini-Rex, Mone Lakatani, Melissa Jackson Ravai, Mara Tohilima, Monet Ikinepule Etuata & Topui Talagi Ikiua.

“Vaka Paopao” was composed in 1992 by Hanofu Ikiua who was the Takitaki Maaga (Village Leader) for V3 Hakupu Atua at PIC Newton Church in Auckland at that time. The composer uses metaphorical references and the symbolism of the Niue “Vaka” to speak about the light of Christianity and the arrival of missionaries. 

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“VAKA PAOPAO” 

Hanofu Ikiua, 1992, Auckland New Zealand 

Learn the words - 

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VERSE ONE: 

Fakatulou, Fakatulou, monu monu monu x2 

Ko e mahina kua maama mai 

Kua tu fakatupou he tuloto po 

Tau manamanatuaga, kua fakaligoa moe fakaatukehe 

Ko e matagi, ko e matagi, 

Kua agi hauhau mai, manamanatu, moe momoko e loto 

Ha ko e fakalofa he tau tupuna i tuai e! 

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CHORUS: 

Oi talala ka ono atu la (kitia nakai) 

Oi talala ko e vaka paopao (kua hake mai ai) 

Ko e peau, peau tolotua kua mui mai ai 

(Oi auoi) ko e vaka paopao x2 

Kua kalipa mai he tua peau e! 

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VERSE TWO: 

Oi auoi, ko e vaka paopao 

Tahake mai ai, maama ki uta 

Ko e kupu, kupu he Atua 

Ko e vala vai momoko 

Ke fakahauhau aki 

E tau loto vale 

Tau loto vale tau toa i tuai e!