I was brought up by my grandparents, Matiu raua ko Taiawhio Wati, on Mangarata block and Arapaoa at Waihaua Marae.

I attended Tangiteroria Primary and Dargaville High schools then on to Maori Trade Training as a painter and now have a painting business as well as teaching the trade for Northtec in Dargaville.

I will help my family and my people with education and employment. Knowledge and work is what drives me, I believe it makes us who we truly are.

Matiu Wati