A Pukeko In a Ponga Tree

Description

This very special large-format hardback edition celebrates the 40th anniversary of Aotearoa's most beloved and iconic Christmas story. This beautiful hardback gift edition celebrates 40 years of Aotearoa New Zealand's Twelve Days of Christmas. On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me a pukeko in a ponga tree. Written by the distinguished composer and Maori Language Commissioner Sir Kingi M. Ihaka and teamed with iconic illustrations by famed pop artist Dick Frizzell, this story has captivated and entertained children for four generations. It has been performed in concerts, adapted into Christmas plays and even inspired a festive community light show on Auckland's Harbour Bridge. This edition of the story includes play-along music notation and chords, as well as a QR code that takes you to the song video so everyone can sing along! This very special 40th anniversary hardback edition is a gift to treasure and deserves a place on every bookshelf.

Kingi M. Ihaka (Author) Sir Kingi Matutaera Ihaka (Te Aupouri, 1921-1993) was a respected translator, Anglican minister, broadcaster, musician and Maori language champion. Kingi was the thirteenth of fourteen children, grew up fluent in Maori and English and had a beautiful, deep singing voice. He first worked in the Native Department before training as a translator and Anglican priest. A founding member of the Putiki Maori Club and a tutor of adult education at Ngati Poneke Maori Club, Ihaka composed music prolifically, published a collection of Maori proverbs and popular sayings, and regularly contributed to the 'Maoritanga' programme on national radio. He was knighted in 1989 for his services to the Maori people and in 1990 became Maori Language Commissioner. He died in 1993 at the age of 73, and left behind a number of musical works including A Pukeko in a Ponga Tree, his enduringly popular adaptation of 'The Twelve Days of Christmas'. Dick Frizzell (Illustrator) Dick Frizzell is one of Aotearoa New Zealand's most popular and important artists, whose works are held in major public, corporate and private collections. His pop art works have become some of New Zealand's most iconic and well-known images, from his 'Mickey to Tiki, Tu Meke' to his Four Square Man. He has exhibited widely throughout New Zealand and has published several books. He lives in Auckland.