Anne Tauroa - Te Pokaitahi Ngapuhi-Nui-Tonu-Te Raranga (Certificate in Maori Weaving)

“It’s natural for Maori to weave. It directly connects you to your wairua and your essential self which are big issues for Maori identity.”

Anne has moved back to the north having been in Wanganui and she has no background in flax. “I wanted to challenge myself in a tertiary education context and create a fresh start.”

“I love the company of the people in our class. Everyone here is new to flax too so we’re learning together and supporting each other.”

“I’m surprised that I’m actually making bags and baskets and mats. I’m really proud of myself and my journey. I am a solo mum and I want to show my little fella that you can accomplish anything you want to do. I want to guide him to find his own career path.

Anne hopes to extend to both the Diploma and then the Degree in Maori Arts. “I’d like to teach weaving, or whatever comes up in these years. Our tutor is an inspiration.  She is flexible, her expectations are sharp, and she sets up support. I don’t know what my style of teaching will be but I’m learning to speak out.”

“’Weaving can change you as a person. It centres you. Doing it is like going on a spiritual journey.”