Tohunga, artists and community leaders have been honoured for their contributions to preserving and promoting the future of high-quality Maori arts.
The Creative New Zealand Te Waka Toi Awards, in Rotorua on Saturday night, celebrated the lives and successes of nga toi Maori (Maori arts) practitioners and advocates, and serve as a springboard for emerging artists.
Established in 1986, the annual awards are the only national Maori arts awards that celebrate all artforms, with awards that recognise leadership, outstanding contribution, excellence and potential in nga toi Maori.
Supreme award
Renowned visual artist Sandy Adsett, MNZM, MMVA (Ngati Pahauwera, Ngati Kahungunu) received the supreme award for exemplary contribution to nga toi Maori, Te Tohu Aroha mo Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu. Mr Adsett is a painter with experience in carving, weaving, costume and stage design. His impressive influence and artwork can be seen in many community buildings from meeting houses to churches, art museums, government and corporate venues as well as private collections.