Mina Ripia (aka Wai)

Iwi

Nga Puhi and Ngāti Kahungunu.

Whānau

Papa – Ture, mama – Hannah, older sister and bro in-law – Ani and Louis, iramutu – Harley, older sister – Elly – returned to Hawaiiki, iramutu – Sherryanne and Harleah, brother and sister in-law – Russell and Emily, iramutu – Karauna and Taakarei, sister and bro in-law – Tracey and Bryce, iramutu – Tiriwa, Kaneri, and Tamati.

Education

Dargaville High School, Tangaroa College, Birkdale College – did not sit any school C subjects.

Occupation

Singer, songwriter, producer.
Director of Minaaka Limited.

What did you want to be when you were young?

A Silver Fern.

Who are your inspirational role models?

Everyone who speaks Māori and who is learning to speak Māori.

What is your favourite...

· food?

Strawberries with melted chocolate all over them.

· music?

Most music.

· person/people?

Maaka Phat / All people.

· movie?

Yes, Māka and I watch a lot of movies. We have seen every new release.

· TV programme?

Temptation Island – NOT!.

· pastime?

Doing all our administration and taxes.

What is the grossest thing in your fridge?

Two week old salad.

What are your ambitions for the future?

In my lifetime to be doing something that I love and enjoy.

What sparked your interest in following your particular career path?

Hooking up with the band Moana and the Moa Hunters.

December, 2003