Where are you living now and how long have you been there?
Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland. Been here on and off for 8 years!
Where on the Coromandel did you grow up?
Whitianga and the Purangi River
When did you live there?
I lived in Whitianga/Purangi from when I was born till I left school, 1997-2014. I’ve done various stints back in the area, working on the Glass Bottom Boat during my uni holidays, and at Coromandel’s CFM in 2019 and 2020.
Which school/s did you attend?
Just good old Mercury Bay Area School (lifer!).
Highlights since you finished school?
All the many things the world has to offer! Joining the Navy, and completing my education with a Bachelor of Communications at AUT. Moving to LA and working in Hollywood. Being on the local radio station in my hometown. Learning how to be a support worker and the amazing personal growth that brought. Living and working in Antarctica for six months. The most thrilling thing I’ve realised since leaving school is you can try anything you want in this world, and I don’t think I yet understand the full meaning of that.
How do you spend your days now?
I work as a producer at RNZ National on Afternoons and The Panel. I find and learn about a variety of interesting stories to bring to the people of Aotearoa.
What do you like the most about the culture where you are?
I’m working amongst talented and engaging people who care about developing me in a career and direction I want to head in. It’s a positive, supportive culture, and I think the kaupapa of a public service broadcaster is at the core of that.
What are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of trusting my gut and being brave enough to leave or try new things when I know a situation isn’t serving me and my life the way I want it to.
Also, ignoring job descriptions and applying anyway!
What are your fondest memories of home?
After-school summer hangouts with friends when I was 13. Grabbing our bikes and going on missions to jump off the wharf, tree or bridge. Sitting at the corner fish and chip shop pooling our 50 cent coins for some chips, cheese and mayo. It was ‘care-less’ outdoor fun, and our white school tops often needed soaking at the end of it.
Have you been back home recently? Impressions?
I come back every month or two as my wonderful family are still here. However I mostly stick to the Purangi River and the dark side these days, as it’s where I feel most at home. Whitianga has grown and doesn’t quite feel quite like the same place I grew up in … but that could easily be nostalgia playing tricks on my brain!
Who are you looking forward to catching up with next time you are home?
My Grandma. She’s an incredible and intelligent woman living in a wonderful place. She kayaks across the Purangi River to get out into the world, and the river doesn’t stop her being a social butterfly. I’m inspired by her life and she just cracks me up too. I feel most comfortable and relaxed with her.
What advice would you give younger you?
Choosing to do a university paper, job, or place to live just because you get to spend time with and learn from an incredible person is very valid (maybe the most valid) reason to make that decision.
He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata.
Biggest life lesson so far?
It’s up to you how many layers of love you uncover in this life, whether it be with family, friends, or a life partner. The depth of love is endless.
Supported by Ron Morgan
