Jenny-May's brave journey - FEARS, WHANAU & FINDING MYSELF

THE TALENTED TV PRESENTER REVEALS JUST HOW FAR SHE HAS COME

- Rebecca Barry Hill

It’s a stunning day at Jenny-May and Dean Clarkson’s home, and a breeze is rustling the trees that frame the house the couple share with their extended whanau. Midway through our photoshoot, the photographer ducks out to grab something, and although the couple could relax and release their embrace, they draw closer, her head on his chest.

It’s a sign that the bond these two share runs deep – just as it did during their serendipitous first meeting nearly six years ago.

They’ve been through a lot since then – a whirlwind romance that saw them engaged after nine days; raising their twin boys Te Manahau and Atawhai, daughters Libby-Jane, 16, and Leah, 13; and experiencing devastating family heartbreak two years ago, when JennyMay’s brother and father both passed away within a few months. In the past year, they’ve navigated the presenter’s most public challenge – taking on a hosting gig on TVNZ 1’s Breakfast show just as the world was hit by a pandemic.

“I guess that’s the beautiful thing about us,” says JennyMay of the decision to take the job. “Yes, we are a couple, but we’re individuals within that. If you can see that something is going to give life and meaning and purpose, then you’ll support the other to do that.”

“Totally,” agrees Dean, a community consultant. “I’m very proud. I see so much more of her coming through on Breakfast. Jenny-May’s more than just a sports person, ex-Silver Fern, NZ touch player, former police officer... all the things people default to. She’s a human being with a beautiful heart that shines through. People love her. All our mates and whanau adore her because of who she is.”