Mehiata Riaria
- Born:
- Auckland, New Zealand, 12 July 1985
- Nationality:
- New Zealander
- Profession(s):
- Author, Historian, Cultural Preservationist
Early Life and Education
- Born in Auckland, New Zealand, to Maori and European parents.
- Developed a deep interest in Maori history and culture from a young age, influenced by her grandmother's stories.
- Graduated with a BA in History from the University of Auckland, focusing on Maori oral traditions.
- Completed a Master's degree in Indigenous Studies, with a thesis on the role of women in pre-colonial Maori society.
Career and Major Achievements
- Began her career as a researcher at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, specializing in Maori taonga (treasures).
- Published her first academic article on Maori land rights in the Journal of Pacific History.
- Gained wider recognition for her work on mehiata riaria biography books, aiming to preserve and promote Maori cultural heritage.
- Founded the "Te Reo Preservation Project," an initiative dedicated to revitalizing the Maori language among younger generations.
- Served as a consultant for several documentaries and films on Maori history and culture.
Notable Works
- Books:
- Guardians of the Land: Maori Environmental Stewardship (2015)
- Voices of Our Ancestors: A Collection of Maori Oral Histories (2018)
- The Warrior Women of Aotearoa (2021)
- Documentaries (Consultant):
- Aotearoa: Land of the Long White Cloud (2019)
- The Maori Renaissance (2022)
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Year | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand Book Award for Non-Fiction | 2019 | For Voices of Our Ancestors |
| Te Waka Toi Award for Excellence in Maori Arts | 2022 | For her overall contribution to Maori cultural preservation |
Legacy and Impact
Mehiata Riaria is a leading figure in the preservation and promotion of Maori culture and history. Her work as an author, historian, and cultural preservationist has significantly contributed to a greater understanding and appreciation of Maori heritage in New Zealand and internationally. Her dedication to revitalizing the Maori language and sharing the stories of her ancestors ensures that their voices continue to resonate for generations to come.