Māori Leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer Stands Tall with Haka and Eminem
Māori Leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer Stands Tall with Haka and Eminem
Debbie Ngarewa-Packer, a New Zealand MP and co-leader of Te Pāti Māori, shares her love for rap music and her admiration for Eminem.
Co-leader of Te Pāti Māori and Member of Parliament, she has been in the global spotlight recently for her powerful stance against the Treaty Principles Bill proposed by New Zealand’s right-bloc coalition government. Expressing her party position through a fiery haka that resonated far and wide, Ngarewa-Packer’s leadership in the protest highlighted her commitment to Māori rights and values.
But when the dust settles, what gets her ready for a fight? Turns out, it is rap music.
In a recent interview published by The New Zealand Herald, Ngarewa-Packer revealed her playlist of choice when gearing up for the challenges ahead:
I really like rap. “Still Dre” is probably my fight song. Eminem — I went to all his concerts. I love him big time. He’s my favourite.
Her passion for music mirrors her activism — full of energy, determination, and unapologetic flair. The combination of traditional Māori resistance, like the haka, and modern rap anthems underscores Ngarewa-Packer’s unique ability to bridge past and present while inspiring others.
For a leader blending Māori tradition with modern beats, Debbie’s got the ultimate vibe: fierce, focused, and always ready to bring the heat.
