One of the country's premier Māori artists has been awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Waikato.
Derek Lardelli was recognised as an influential ta moko artist, painter, carver and sculptor.
While those in Hamilton today paid tribute to him in song and haka, he is also known for composing Kapa o Pango for the All Blacks.
The newly-minted doctor is also himself a champion haka leader.
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