Pokarekare Ana
Pokarekare Ana is a traditional New Zealand love song written by an unknown author about the time World War 1 began.It was reputedly composed in the far north of New Zealand, and became particularly popular with Maori soldiers who were training near Auckland before embarking for Europe.
There have been numerous claims and counterclaims regarding authorship over the years. Although the matter has never been definitively settled, guardianship of the words and music are held by the family (descendants) of Paraire Tomoana who was considered the likely composer. Although the Maori words have virtually remained unaltered over the decades, there have been many different English translations.
The song is performed, usually badly in Maori, wherever Kiwis congregate anywhere in the world. It is very popular in New Zealand and is sometimes called the country's unofficial national anthem, although it has been adapted to political advertising and by sporting groups.
Late in 2003 Pokarekare Ana featured on the Pure album released worldwide by the young New Zealand soprano Hayley Westenra. Pure is the fastest selling debut album ever on the UK classical charts. Internationally known New Zealand opera singers to previously record and perform Pokarekare Ana are Dame Kiri Te Kawana and Dame Malvina Major. Dozens of other artists throughout the world have recorded this song.