Ed Sheeran's epic selfie with kapa haka group

Members of Dunedin Maori cultural group He Waka Kotuia with Ed Sheeran. Photo: Supplied via Otago Daily Times

Kiringaua Cassidy was "still buzzing" the morning after being part of a kapa haka group that welcomed Ed Sheeran to Otago at the singer's first Dunedin concert.

The year 10 King's High School pupil is a member of Maori cultural group He Waka Kotuia, and said the "phenomenal" opportunity on Thursday evening was the highlight of his kapa haka career.

"I've hardly slept."

Kiringaua, who said he had been "born and raised with kapa haka," is the son of the group's head tutor, Komene Cassidy, and Paulette Tamati-Elliffe, the programme leader of Kotahi Mano Kaika, an organisation aimed at increasing the numbers of Ngai Tahu homes speaking te reo Maori.

Ms Tamati-Elliffe said the Otakou Runanga had initially contacted Sheeran's tour manager and invited him to their marae on the Otago Peninsula to formally welcome the singer and his crew to the region.

The manager had declined their invitation, instead suggesting a short welcome ceremony on stage before the concert.

The group, consisting of many members of the local iwi including a strong contingent of King's and Queen's High School pupils, were happy to oblige, Ms Tamati-Elliffe said. They also took a surprise selfie photo with the English superstar on their way to the stage.

Members of Dunedin Maori cultural group He Waka Kotuia with Ed Sheeran. Photo: Supplied via Otago Daily Times

The group performed a wero, karanga and haka powhiri to welcome Sheeran's tour and production managers, but they initially thought Ed would not be present, she said.

"It was understood that Ed would not be at the venue at the time, so it was to their absolute surprise to have Ed come out to greet and thank our young performers for their welcome as they passed through the players' tunnel on the way to the stage.

"He was genuinely appreciative and asked the group if they would like a photo."