It’s in the alone moments that it hits me the hardest… when the memories come flooding back and I find myself reliving it all over again — the loss of a16-year-old boy, the guilt, and the helplessness of not being able to change anything, or see you, or hold you again.
That’s the part I struggle with the most.
But I hold onto this… knowing you are free now. Whole. At peace.
And I am grateful, my Te Whero, because what I carry of you will always be the best of every day we had together. You will always be in my heart ❤️
Today I sat and shared my story with Te Ao Māori news Whakataha Māori ? my journey, my moko kauae and the deeper understanding of what it means for me to stand proudly in who I am .
I spoke from a place of truth, vulnerability, strength, and aroha. I shared whakaaro about my journey as an educator, a learner, a wāhine, and a person continuing to grow through every chapter life has placed before me.
One of the most important things I shared was the meaning behind wearing my moko kauae, it is not just adornment it is responsibility, connection, and honour. I wear it in honour of lifting wāhine higher, of standing beside women with mana, compassion, and strength.
There is something powerful about reclaiming your own narrative about speaking your truth in your own voice .
This journey has not always been easy, but it has been meaningful. And if there is one thing I know now, it is this our stories matter. Our whakapapa matters. Our voices matter.
Today, I honour the journey, the healing, the learning, and the becoming. @teaomaorinews
I am what I am strong, radiant, evolving, and unapologetically myself. Known for my presence, heart, resilience, and the energy I carry wherever I go. A balance of softness and strength, beauty and power, grace and a warrior spirit.
Last year was such an incredible experience. I just wanted to give you a little sneak peek into how I create on a very low budget this entire shoot was done independently by me, with creativity leading the way over cost.
2026 NZHA Creative Awards entries are now open! Give it a go, back yourself, and have fun with it!
@hairandbarbernz
My moko kauae is not just seen, it is embraced in my teaching space with Rangatahi , my community, my online presence, and my whānau. She is part of me ❤️
My Moko Kauae Hype Crew , Beautiful friends and Whānau thank you for being part of this ❤️ of course it didnt help it was set on a working day but so greatful to everyone that could make it 🙏 😊 ❤️. Photos: @rebeccamcmillanphotography
This portrait was made moments after Te Warena’s moko kauae was completed.
The eyes tell the story of sorrow and strength, loss and love. We honoured Te Whero, her son who recently passed. He was with us in the room. The intensity of the stare is an exchange between subject and photographer, friend to friend. Te Warena holds her strength through all of the pain. I am in awe of my dear friend.
#portrait #nzphotographer #mokokauae #maori
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