Gillian Whitehead's 'Poroporoaki', which roughly translates from Te Reo Māori as 'calls of farewell,' is a poignant and evocative work for string quartet. Dedicated to Richard Nunns, a champion of taonga pūoro (traditional Māori instruments), the composition transcends cultural boundaries, offering a tribute to the natural world and the sounds that evoke it. 'Poroporoaki' is a masterful transcription of the sounds of taonga puoro as played by Richard Nunns. The quartet imitates the pūtātara (shell trumpet), karanga manu (bird caller), nguru (flute), tumutumu (percussive), poi awhiowhio (whirled gourd — bird caller), and pūtōrino (bugle flute). These instruments, each with its unique timbre and character, create a rich tapestry of sound that resonates with the landscapes and traditions of Aotearoa. The piece is characterized by its atmospheric and beautifully shaped phrases, which hold the audience's rapt attention. From the midpoint, the transcribed instrumental phrases become motivic, weaving together in a tapestry of sound that is both captivating and deeply moving. 'Poroporoaki' is a testament to the universal language of music and its power to connect us to the natural world. Through its evocative sounds and rich textures, the composition invites listeners on a journey of reflection and introspection. The Pōpokotea, or Whitehead, is a small insect-eating bird from the family, Mohouidae, which is only found in New Zealand. It is a busy and gregarious bird that has a loud ‘chirruping’ song, often chattering together in large groups. Males have a white head and belly while their wings and tails are light brown. Females and juveniles have a brown crown and nape. They are very small, about half the size of a sparrow. These birds can be seen throughout Zealandia, in small groups high in trees. They are usually spotted looking for spiders and insects on tree trunks and leaves, often hanging upside down as they search for food.