He Takata

ZOE PANIRAU
Ko Te Upoko o Tahumatā te maunga
Ko Ōkana te awa
Ko Uruao te waka
Ko Ngāti Irakehu, ko Ngāti Makō ngā hapū
No Wairewa ahau.

Kia ora, my name is Zoe Panirau and I’m a proud māmā to two beautiful boys. I was born in Rotorua, but raised in Ōtautahi. As a kid, I spent a lot of time at the marae following my taua, Pollyann Panirau, or running amuck with all the cuzzies! Those experiences taught me the importance of whanaungatanga, which still guides me today.

I am currently working for Wairewa Rūnanga as the Communications and Engagement Advisor. This mahi has been a rewarding journey, with its fair share of challenges that have pushed me to grow and adapt. What I love most about this role is the opportunity to connect and spend time with our whānau whānui, especially our kaumātua.

When I’m not working or engaged in other rūnanga mahi, I’m either weaving, or out and about with my boys, whether it’s at their sports, swimming (they’re water babies), or enjoying bike rides around the park. I truly cherish these moments while they still want to spend time with me, haha!

WHAT CONSTITUTES A GOOD DAY?                                  
A good day for me often starts with snuggles with my babies and ends with a home-cooked meal.

ONE THING YOU COULD NOT LIVE WITHOUT?
My whānau – always there to lift me up, support me through every challenge, and share every joy.

WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU AND WHY?
My babies. They remind me of the importance of love, patience, and showing up with my best self.

HIGHLIGHT IN THE LAST YEAR AND WHY?
Gaining my open-water diving certificate …and landing the coolest job in the world.

WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST EXTRAVAGANCE?
Experiences that bring my whānau together like weekends away, celebrations – anything that creates memories we can all hold on to.

FAVOURITE WAY TO CHILL OUT? FAVOURITE PLACE?
Snacks at the beach. There’s something about watching and listening to the waves crashing.

DANCE OR WALLFLOWER?
Wallflower. I am the most awkward, introverted human ever.

WHAT FOOD COULD YOU NOT LIVE WITHOUT?
Roast with all the trimmings or steak, eggs, chips and creamy mushroom sauce.

WHAT MEAL DO YOU COOK THE MOST?
Mac and cheese – my boys’ favourite kai.

GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT?
My two boys for sure. Raising them with strong values and a deep pride in te ao Māori.

DO YOU HAVE AN ASPIRATION FOR KĀI TAHU TO ACHIEVE BY 2050?
To cultivate a new generation of leaders who are deeply rooted in Ngāi Tahu values and are empowered to advocate for our people and our land.