Marewa Severne embodies the very essence of what it means to be wāhine Maori. She brings this integrity and strength to her teaching, with a ready smile, positivity, and a willingness to elevate mātauranga Maori in her life and her work. As a toi kaiako (tutor) at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa in Ōtepoti (Dunedin), she opens doors to knowledge, and guides students to their own place in life, and along the path of their unique journey in Toi Māori.
Descended from Ngāti Tūwharetoa she has made her home in Ōtepoti, and for four years has been teaching the Toi Maruata Certificate in Māori and Indigenous Art Level 3 programme. As well as being a full-time teacher and mother, Marewa is a volunteer fire fighter and is also studying towards a Maunga Kura Toi Bachelor of Māori Art degree.
Through her teaching she shares her knowledge of fine drawing skills, painting, weaving and rongoā Māori.
Heramaahina Eketone is from Mai Uenuku ki te Whenua Marae in Waikato.
Teaching Toi Māori in Ōtepoti for the last eight years, Heramaahina is skilled in painting, drawing, tā moko and whakairo. Currently she is working on an uku (clay) project for her marae on the banks of Whaingaroa Harbour, as well as completing heke (rafter painting) for the interior. In everything she brings her hand to, Heramaahina aspires to excellence and the creation of new knowledge. As a trained social worker Heramaahina expresses life in a connected and committed way, and sees her teaching of toi as a pathway to healing and connection.
Together these two wāhine Māori have created a relevant place for learning through toi Māori in Ōtepoti. As friends and colleagues they create an energy which is founded on growth and positivity.
Whatever your level of skill, we have a Toi Māori programme to suit you. Enquire today about our fees free ToI Maruata Level 3 programme starting soon.
If you already have some skills, Te Wānanga o Aotearoa also offers full-year programmes at Level 4 and 5.
