Kia Hora Te Marino

Christopher Tin's 'Kia Hora Te Marino' is a beautiful and evocative piece that draws deeply from Māori culture and language. The title itself translates to 'May Peace Be Widespread,' setting the tone for a song that is both a prayer and a call for unity and tranquility. The lyrics are a blend of traditional Māori proverbs and chants, which are often used to invoke blessings and well-being for the community and the environment.

The opening lines, 'Kia hora te marino, Kia whakapapa pounamu te moana,' can be translated to 'May the calm be widespread, May the sea glisten like greenstone.' These lines evoke a sense of peace and natural beauty, suggesting a world where harmony prevails. The repetition of 'Kia hora te marino' throughout the song reinforces this desire for widespread peace and tranquility, making it a central theme.

The song also includes a poignant question, 'He aha te mea nui o te Ao?' which translates to 'What is the most important thing in the world?' The answer, 'He tangata! He tangata! He tangata!' meaning 'It is people! It is people! It is people!' underscores the importance of human connection and community. This line is a well-known Māori proverb that emphasizes the value of people over material possessions or other concerns.

The chant 'Tihei mauri ora' is a traditional Māori expression that means 'Behold, there is life!' It is often used to acknowledge the life force and vitality within us. The subsequent lines, 'A whiti whano! Haramai te toki! Haumi ē! Hui ē! Tāiki ē!' are traditional calls to action, often used in ceremonies to unite people and strengthen their resolve. These elements collectively create a powerful message of unity, peace, and the importance of human connection, making 'Kia Hora Te Marino' a deeply moving and culturally rich song.