Hinemoa in harmony MY MOST IMPORTANT LESSONS

Taking care of others is more crucial than ever, she shares

- Nicky Pellegrino

Once she was known for being a children's TV presenter and wife to Paul Holmes. Now at 56, Dr. Hinemoa Elder has found her place in the world as a psychiatrist, health researcher, successful author, and proud Māori woman. She will mark Matariki by taking the stage at M9, a new speaker and performance event.

Are you excited to be involved with the inaugural M9 event?

I'm so looking forward to it. M9 is the work of musician Ria Hall, who has put together an eclectic combination of Māori women to present a really extraordinary night celebrating Matariki and matauranga Māori. I'm honoured to be a part of it.

You'll join women like Anika Moa and Stacey Morrison on stage to entertain audiences with unique stories. What will you be speaking about?

I'm going to share some things from my new book, which is coming out in October. It's about the Māori moon Hina, the female deity that guides us through each day and night of our Māori lunar calendar. I wanted to write a book that I wish I'd read when I was younger.

Did you expect your first book, Aroha: Māori Wisdom for a Contented Life Lived in Harmony With Our Planet, to be such a huge success?

I wasn't sure how it would be received, but I did think some of our Māori communities might be interested, particularly those on their reo journey. Now I get messages every day from people all over the world who have found parts of it have resonated deeply with them. I'm so happy they've found the book useful.

Your mother Ina, who died of breast cancer 30 years ago, continues to be your greatest influence. How do you keep her in your life?