Kia ora, I’m Kelly – the founder and creative behind Mātātuhi Designs.
I was born and raised in Auckland, Aotearoa, and I’ve been living in Australia for over 11 years now. My whakapapa connects me to both Taranaki and the Far North, and while I’ve always had a stronger connection to my Taranaki side, I’m currently on a personal journey to learn more about my Ngā Puhi roots. Knowing who I am and where I come from is incredibly important to me, and I’m committed to understanding both sides of my heritage.
Growing Up Māori
I grew up in Māngere, and as a light-skinned Māori, my experience wasn’t always easy. It came with challenges, but also taught me valuable life lessons. From around the age of 7 or 8, I was immersed in te reo Māori. I joined the whānau class in intermediate school, continued on that path through high school, and fully embraced kapa haka. I was a kaea, attended weekend wānanga, and took every opportunity to connect with te ao Māori.
Life Abroad and Returning to My Roots
In my twenties, I moved to London, where I spent several years, eventually marrying and then relocating to Australia, where we live today. Though I’ve spent time far from home, my identity as Māori has always remained close to my heart.
Why I Started Mātātuhi Designs
I’ve spoken in earlier blogs and posts about why I started Mātātuhi Designs, and the reason is simple. It’s connection. This kaupapa allows me to stay grounded in te ao Māori, while sharing the beauty and richness of our culture with others.
And you don’t need to be Māori to appreciate it. If your intentions are respectful and your heart is open, you’re welcome here.
He Māori Ahau
Māori identity is not something that can be measured in shades of skin. It is carried in our whakapapa, in our connection to our tīpuna, and in the way we uphold and protect our culture.
Te Tarai o Rāhiri te maunga
Te Mangakāhia te awa
Ngā Puhi te iwi
Te Tarai o Rāhiri te marae
Ngāti Horahia te hapū
Taranaki te maunga
Pungaerere te awa
Taranaki te iwi
Te Potaka te marae
Ngāti Haupoto te hapū
Being Māori isn’t the only part of who I am, but it is a part I carry with pride. Even though I’m fair-skinned, I know who I am.
He Māori ahau.
Ngā mihi nui,
Kelly
