Pokarekare Ana
Hayley Westenra · River Of Dreams - Very Best Of [2008]
Nga wai o Waiapu
Whiti atu koe hine
Marino ana e
E hine e
Hoki maira
Kamate au
I te aroha e
Tuhituhi taku rita
Tuku atu taku ringi
Kia kiti to iwi
Raru raru ana e
E hine e
Hoki maira
Kamate au
I te aroha e
Stormy are the waters
Of restless Waiapu
If you cross them, girl
They will be calmed
Oh girl
Come back to me
I could die
Of love for you
I write you my letter
I send you my ring
So your people can see
How troubled I am
Oh girl
Come back to me
I could die
Of love for you
Pokarekare Ana
Hayley Westenra's 'Pokarekare Ana' stands as a defining anthem of New Zealand's musical identity, blending traditional folk melodies with contemporary pop arrangements. Recorded for her 2008 compilation 'River Of Dreams - Very Best Of', the track exemplifies her signature style of harmonizing indigenous Maori chants with polished production. The song transcends its cultural origins to become a global standard for a cappella and folk-pop ensembles, frequently performed at international festivals and charity events. Its enduring popularity reflects Westenra's ability to preserve authentic vocal traditions while appealing to a broad, international audience. As a cornerstone of her discography, the recording showcases her technical precision and emotional depth, cementing her status as a leading figure in modern folk music.