The Maori arts board of Creative New Zealand has recently announced the latest recipient of the 2002 Te Tohu Tiketike a Te Waka Toi/Te Waka Toi Exemplary Award, recognising outstanding leadership and service to Maori arts and culture. New Zealand musician, composer, writer and academic Dr Hirini Melbourne, was recently presented the award for his contribution to the preservation of taonga puoro (traditional musical instruments), the promotion of 'te reo' Maori and to New Zealand’s culture. Dr Melbourne is noted as leading the resurgence of traditional Maori music, he has produced more than 20 music recordings and has played a key role in the revival of the making and playing of traditional Mäori musical instruments. As a result of his work, these instruments are now widely used by musicians and in kapa haka performance. Over many years, he has served as an assessor for Te Waka Toi and the Arts Board of Creative New Zealand. His extensive knowledge of te reo Maori, the history of Tühoe and of music has enhanced the profile of Maori arts. Te Waka Toi Chair, Elizabeth Ellis, notes that Melbourne is somewhat of a 'national treasure' noting that 'he has preserved and promoted traditional Mäori music that may otherwise have been lost to us. And through his scholarship and creativity, he has promoted Mäori language and culture to many communities throughout Aotearoa.'