I am a mother, nan, family violence advocate and a Māori researcher. I have a Master of Applied Psychology, a Bachelor of Social Sciences with Honours, and a PRINCE 2 certification.

In my role as Kaitiaki-a-Whare-Wahine the thing that is most important to me is the moemoeā (dream/aspiration) that wahine Māori take their rightful place as leaders, carers, nurturers, and educators to their whānau, hapū and iwi.  That the status of Māori women as he whare tangata is respected, revered and protected as vessels of our future generations.  That alongside tāne Māori the preservation of whakapapa is ensured and enduring where our tamariki are safe, well and thriving.  

I have received a Police Award for my work with the Integrated Safety Response (ISR) model which included realigning the ISR model to the community – creating a truly integrated space where agencies worked together to ensure a wraparound response to whānau living with family violence. I am also one of the authors of the book: Mau Moko: The World of Māori Tattoo, which won the Montana Book 2008 Award Kupu Ora Māori – Book of the Decade 2009.

My work over the years has enabled me to sit on a number of Boards and advisory committees including:

• Tangata Whenua Roopu – Family Violence Sexual Violence Māori Aotearoa
• Kaitiaki Roopu – Sub-group off FVSV tasked to recruit, select and recommend an appointment to the ministerial advisory board.
• Eating disorders/eating issues – MOH advisory board specifically focused on ensuring the voice of Māori and lived experience and

• MYPLANNZ – an advisory group that supports victims of family violence to be safe.