Three Star Nation: Takalo - “Ko Mautolu Nei”

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.

The Takalo is a Niue style war dance performed by Males. This particular Takalo was composed by Macmillian Etuata in 1964 for the Hakupu Men’s Rugby Team tour to Rarotonga. The composer uses descriptive lyrics to intimidate the opposing team: “Ko mautolu nei ko e tau tagata kai tagata” - which literally translates as, “we are the people who eat other people!”

TAKALO “KO MAUTOLU NEI”

Macmillian Etuata, 1964, Fineone Hakupu-Atua, Niue.

Learn the words -

Ko mautolu nei ko e tau tagata

Kai tagata, kai tagata

To moua e au a koe mogonei

Ti he he he!

Lulululu ki Toga

Lulululu ki Tokelau

Ko e tākeleaga he Atua fitikilā

Hi ti, hi ti!

Ko e tākeleaga he Atua fitikilā

Hi ti, hi ti!

Tuiiaaaa!