Kaiwhiri grew up between Tauranga Moana and a remote farm on Waiheke Island with her nan, though she proudly calls Whangaruru home. As Ngāti Wai, she was raised with a deep connection to the moana, surrounded by whānau who love to fish and dive. Much of her childhood was spent adventuring with her cousins and spending time with Tangaroa, building a lifelong appreciation for the ocean.
One of her favourite things to do is heading out fishing and diving for kina with her uncle. While she wouldn’t claim to be the most skilled diver, she’s always happy to help “raise the quota.”
In 2021, Kaiwhiri moved to Tāmaki Makaurau to study a Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Auckland, followed by a year of full immersion Te reo Māori at Te Wānanga Takiura. As Kaimanaaki at Revive Our Gulf, she helps keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes – supporting the team, organising mahi, and leading the social media presence.
Favourite marine species
Tohora with Whai in close second, but it is very hard to pick.
Favourite marine habitat
Coastal for sure!
Favourite hobby
Fishing and diving with my Uncle. Anything involving Tangaroa is like Christmas to me, but when I can’t get out on the moana I do love a good hike.
