Tame Pokaia

Tame is from Ngaati Mahuta and Ngaati Hikairo descent, and was born and raised at Ngaaruawaahia. He comes from one of the papakaainga families that lived on Tuurangawaewae marae. He credits growing up on the marae with all the old people as his first place of learning. The experiences and memories gained have been invaluable in his life.

​

After completing a Diploma in Teaching from Waikato Institute of Technology, Tame started work as a tutor for Wintec’s Maaori Studies Department. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts (First Class Honours) from the University of Waikato and is in the final stages of completing a two paper dissertation for his Master of Arts.

​

Tame has a real interest in the pursuit of knowledge and undertaking research. Some of his favourite topics include: Tainui history, Kiingitanga, tribal landmarks, raupatu, poukai, paimaarire, ngaa tongi-aa-Taawhiao, and whaikoorero.

​

Now residing in Hamilton with his wife Sandy, they have one daughter and four mokopuna. They get great pleasure from raising their eldest mokopuna Hinatamariki. Tame enjoys family activities, learning, reading, walking, weights, music, and a good barbeque.