Sir Hirini Moko Mead is a well-known Māori leader in Aotearoa; highly respected for his expertise in te reo Māori and te ao Māori. In 2007, he received the title of Distinguished Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contributions to Māori culture and education over the decades.    Sir Hirini started…

At just 21 years old, Hana Maipi-Clarke has accomplished so much.  She received her education at Te Wharekura o Rākaumangamanga in Huntly and even published a book called Maahina, which delves into the Māori lunar calendar known as maramataka. She was then invited to give a speech on the footsteps of Parliament in celebration of…

Mark Kopua is one of the most famous tāmoko artists and carvers in Aotearoa, known for the many wharenui he has carved and the countless people he has marked, admired amongst Māori as an artistic visionary who has dedicated himself to the work he does for over 40 years.    From growing up in the…

A WOMEN OF JUSTICE   Annette Sykes is a remarkable figure in New Zealand’s legal and political scene. Her journey began during a political protest in Wellington in the 1980s. Since then, she has fearlessly fought for the rights of Māori interests and indigenous rights for the past 40 years, both in New Zealand and…

Hoturoa Barclay-Kerr, a well-known navigator and co-chair of the Tuia250 project, reflects on his life journey and connection to sailing and waka culture. Named after the famed Tainui waka captain, Hoturoa delves into his family heritage, upbringing, and education, highlighting significant influences that have shaped his identity and enthusiasm for waka.     Brought up in…

THE ORATOR OF THE KING    Rahui Papa has spent his life dedicated to his people. With a wealth of knowledge and experience in Waikato culture and language, Rahui is highly respected as an expert in his field and for these reasons has served as the orator to the current Māori king: honing the skills…

Rawiri Wright took a leap of faith 30 years ago that led him, his wife, and their whānau into the world of kura kaupapa Māori, devoting themselves to the regeneration of everything Māori.  As a man who has been at the centre of the Kura Kaupapa movement, he believes that Kura Kaupapa Māori Aho Matua…

Rena Owen is best known for her pivotal role as Beth Heke in Lee Tamahori’s iconic film ‘Once Were Warriors’ where her compelling performance earned her countless awards and nominations, locally and internationally. Since then, Rena has continued to excel in her career as an actress, producer & writer in film, television and theater, showcasing…

A POWERHOUSE WAHINE 💫 Rachel Taulelei is a globally recognised business leader, business owner, and sports franchise holder. With a background in law and finance, the beginning of her career started with humble beginnings as an office administrator. But her strong drive and love for people propelled her to lead her own path. From an…

A GIFTED WARRIOR    Wetini Mitai-Ngatai is a highly respected figure in the world of kapa haka, renowned for his exceptional skills as both an orator and performer. For many years, he has served as both the leader and tutor of the Te Matarae i Ōrehu Kapa Haka , a kapa haka group based in…