This was the resounding message conveyed when Te Waka Toi, The Māori Arts Board of Creative New Zealand, presented Sir Howard with Te Tohu Tiketike a Te Waka Toi, the premiere award for Māori artists who have demonstrated a lifetime commitment to their art and who are leaders in their field.

The ceremony held at Te Papaiōuru Marae in Rotorua was attended by more than 200 of Sir Howard’s friends, whānau and supporters. Among those to pay tribute to Sir Howard were Miti Ririnui MP, Sir Barry Curtis, Mayor of Manukau City, opera singer Dame Malvina Major, writer, director and actor Oscar Kightley (a member of the Creative New Zealand Council) and Te Arawa historian Don Stafford.

All the tributes supported the kaupapa of the day, honouring Sir Howard’s outstanding career in the arts and his exceptional contribution as a New Zealander. In a heartfelt tribute, Sir Barry Curtis praised the community work initiated by Sir Howard, whom he described as "truly a legend".

Oscar Kightley, speaking about Sir Howard’s appearance on Bro’ Town, spoke of Sir Howard’s "inclusiveness", stressing the importance of introducing a younger generation to the work of Sir Howard whom he described as a "great New Zealander".

The chair of Te Waka Toi, Dr Ngahuia Te Awekotuku, in presenting Sir Howard with the award, said Sir Howard had "captured the hearts of New Zealanders and earned his place as a national icon".