David Timu

Mahi Toi Kaiako
david.timu@tongariro.school.nz

Ko Te Arawa te Waka
Ko Matauhipo te Maunga
Ko Waimarino Te awa
Ko Rereao te whare Tupuna
Ko Hinekura te Whare ora
Ko Ngati Hine te hapu
Ko Ngati Tuwharetoa te Iwi
Ko David Tepeau Timu ahau

Tēnā koutou katoa,

My name is David Tepeau Timu, and I am deeply rooted in the rich traditions of te ao Māori. As a skilled whakairo carver and taa moko practitioner, I am committed to preserving and celebrating our culture through the arts. I also practice Romiromi, a traditional Māori healing technique, embodying the holistic values of our ancestors.

I am the proud father of seven boys and the grandfather of three mokos. My vision is to help our rangatahi reconnect with their Māori identity and heritage, fostering a deeper understanding of who they are and where they come from. I believe that through Mahi toi—whether it’s whakairo, taa moko, or Romiromi—our young people can gain a sense of cultural pride, self-awareness, and confidence. These practices are not just art forms but powerful tools for self-expression and connection to te ao Māori.

Through my work, I aim to empower rangatahi to live confidently in their cultural identity, strengthening the bond to our traditions and ensuring that they continue to thrive for future generations.

Ngā mihi,
David Tepeau Timu