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…

A GIFTED CARVER   Master carver James Rickard has been part of the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute since he enrolled in the first carving school intake in 1967. Rickard has not only dedicated decades of his life teaching the traditional Māori art form, but he has also been instrumental in creating hundreds…

A MĀORI MAYORS VISION!   Moko Tepania made history as the youngest elected Far North District Council member in 2019 and again in 2022 as the district’s youngest and first Māori mayor. The far north mayor has been recognized as one of the world’s top young leaders by a global organisation advocating for youth in…

INDIGENOUS HEALTH CHAMPION!    Professor Papaarangi Reid has been at the forefront of equitable outcomes for Māori for over 30 years and is known for her years of dedication to addressing equity and furthering hauora Māori in Aotearoa. We had the opportunity to sit down and talk to Prof. Papaarangi about what equity means in…

Academy nominated actress Keisha Castle-Hughes was uncertain about her future after her breakthrough role in Whale Rider at the age of 12. Now, almost two decades later, she shares insights about her fascinating life both on and off the screen.  Her acting career has united New Zealanders, who take pride in watching Paikea, the young…