Jenny-May's milestone 'I'M READY TO FACE THE FUTURE'

The Breakfast host is emotional about her decision to stand with her ancestors

- Kasia De Vydt-Jillings

After marking her 50th birthday and receiving her moko kauae (traditional Māori chin tattoo) in April this year, Jenny-May Clarkson is celebrating a newfound sense of freedom.

Smiling, the Breakfast presenter says it’s been a liberating experience to welcome the milestone birthday and embrace being unapologetically herself.

“As I turn 50, I’m acutely aware of how much time I’ve got left and there’s an urgency about the way I live my life,” she shares.

“My dad [Waka Coffin] was very humble and instilled in us that we’re only here because of our tūpuna [ancestors]. I was always very thoughtful about what I did and said, and how it would reflect on my family.

“I still have that in mind, but I’m also learning to be a bit more me. There’s more willingness to explore who I am at 50, and I’m finding the freedom to express myself more than I have previously and not being afraid to say things.”

This discovery has also inspired the former Silver Fern to encourage her eight-year-old twin sons Te Manahau and Atawhai more than ever to be authentically themselves.

“With my tama [children], it’s about finding balance between humility and respect for those who went before us, and expressing themselves,” says JennyMay. “I want to lift my boys up and celebrate everything about them so they’re not waiting as long as me to celebrate being Māori and proud of where we come from.

“For me, it’s coming a bit later, but I’m getting there and there’s no doubt receiving my kauae is a huge part of this transformation.”

Referring to her moko kauae, Jenny-May explains she’s always felt a deep sense of belonging seeing other wāhine wearers.

“I grew up with my marae less than 100 metres from home and my mum [Paddy Coffin] is still there. I saw nannies with kauae on marae and there was a comfort in it, like somehow you were a part of them and they were a part of you.”