One of those to become a Dame in this year's Queen's Birthday Honours list is being recognised for her massive contribution to Māori, music and television. She has overcome the challenges thrown her way with determination, beauty, selflessness and grace. Dame Hinewehi Mohi who is of Ngāti Kahungunu, and Ngāi Tūhoe descent sang the New Zealand national anthem in te Reo Māori at an international rugby match, sparking an important national conversation around biculturalism and that led to singing the anthem in both English and Te Reo Māori becoming customary practice. Dame Hinewehi co-founded the Raukatauri Music Therapy Centre in 2004, for people with disabilities. She's a television producer, recording artist and advocate for te reo and tikanga Māori and was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit, Queen's Birthday 2008
Photo: Daniel Boud
