Dr Turuhira Hare

Tūhoe, Te Arawa

Turuhira Hare was born in Te Tapatahi in the valley of Ruātoki, and is a highly respected leader in her community. Renowned for her contributions to Māori performing arts and education, she is passionate about te reo Māori, mōteatea, tikanga and karakia, and dedicates her life to sharing her knowledge with others within her iwi. Turuhira has held numerous prominent roles in kapa haka, including judging at Te Hui Ahurei a Tūhoe, Rangitaiki primary kapa haka competitions, the Primary and Secondary National Kapa Haka competitions, and Te Matatini, where she has served as a judge for over a decade.

Turuhira teaches at Te Wharekura o Ruātoki, a school that she has been a part of for many decades. Notably, in 1978, the school became New Zealand's first official bilingual institution, where students are fluent in both te reo Māori and English. Her enduring commitment to cultural preservation and education has made her an inspirational figure, deeply cherished by her community.