Born and Raised is our inspirational feature, highlighting homegrown Coromandel Peninsula folks doing wonderful things out in the world.
Blake Byles
Where are you living now and how long have you been there?
I have been in South-East London for ten years.
What are your family links to Mercury Bay?
I am Ngāti Hei on my mum’s side. My dad’s family moved to the area in the 80s. My paternal grandparents ran the Kingfisher Restaurant (which is now Smitty’s) when I was a child. My maternal grandparents were heavily involved with some of the churches, through music.
How long did you live in Mercury Bay?
20ish years between the 80s and 00s.
What have you been doing since school?
I worked in film and tv and as a musician for several years. I have been studying at Goldsmiths, University of London since 2019. I have a BA in Psychosocial Studies, with research interests in Postcolonial/Indigenous studies and psychedelic- and eco-therapy. I am currently training in psychodynamic counselling and psychotherapy at Master’s level.
What would be the achievement you are most proud of?
Raising – alongside my wife – two children with big hearts and wicked senses of humour.
What do you like the most about the culture where you are?
There are so many diverse cultures within the community that it really helps promote an awareness of one’s positionality, privileges, and biases. There is always something happening, and so it rewards the curious and intrepid. One of my favourite intersections of the metropolitan melting pot is the food. Upscale restaurant, downtown food truck, and all the pubs in between; the selection and quality are outstanding.
What are your fondest memories of home?Trekking over to Wainuiototo with people who have never been, and sharing that experience of the beach being revealed as you walk out of the bush. Watching the moon rise over Maungatāwhiri while swimming amongst the bioluminescence. The radiant scar of the cosmos stretching overhead; a dazzling sight I miss
