Last Friday we were selected to venture to Ōtākou marae to be a part of the writers' convention ‘Te Pūao’. This was an event associated with the Dunedin Writers Readers Festival that concentrated on profound Māori writers in Aotearoa. These inspirational creatives included Witi Ihimaera, Linda Tuhiwai Smith and Monty Soutar.

The event began with a pōwhiri for the manuhiri (visitors) to walk onto the marae. We were welcomed by the young tangata whenua with an impactful haka pōwhiri. After this was completed, we all gathered in the wharekai to indulge in well-prepared treats. This was a time when we could relax and get to know other avid readers before the talk began. The kōrero itself was led by Megan Pōtiki, and covered a range of topics from the processes of the authors’ writings, their childhoods, and the influence tīkanga Māori has had on their works.

Witi Ihimaera is a renowned New Zealand author, especially famous for writing ‘The Whale Rider’. He spoke on how he feels as if the readers of his books hongi with his tīpuna (ancestors) and his experiences as a tamariki Māori. Witi also mentioned how these experiences shaped his career and his writing, and that he intended on publishing his first-ever novel in Te Reo Māori next year.

Linda Tuhiwai Smith is a well-known academic writer who used to be a professor of indigenous education at the University of Waikato. She has written many critical analyses dissecting history that has been influenced by “imperial eyes”. She transitioned from a fictional writer to a non-fiction one. During the kōrero, she explained how many criticised her switch in topics but she persisted, this proves what an inspiration she is for the youth. Another message that stood out was when she mentioned the power of narratives and who tells the story. It is vital that we uplift the voices of those who are marginalised to ensure all perspectives of history are being heard.

Monty Soutar is a New Zealand historian and author who recently published his first novel, ‘Kāwai’. He talked about his process as an academic writer and how he aspires to be influential for younger generations. Monty stated how he wants to close the large gap between the number of Māori and Pākehā writers and of his intentions to decolonise history through his works, both fiction and non-fiction.

Monet often feels alienated from her Māori culture, so it was overwhelmingly emotional to see how their upbringing in the marae and their close connection with their whakapapa influenced their occupations today. Not only was it incredible to see tangata Māori achieve such greatness, despite the societal barriers put in place, but it was also inspiring as it left us wanting to be the best versions of ourselves.