Fakaalofa lahi atu / Kia ora / Hello.
I trained as a designer at AUT University in Auckland and have spent nearly 18 years in the advertising and branding industry. Over that time, I’ve worked across both big and small agencies, gaining a deep understanding of how ideas move from concept to craft, from bold brand systems to socially driven campaigns.
I’m Māori–Niuean and take immense pride in my heritage, which heavily shapes how I see the world and approach design. I grew up in Manutuke - New Zealand, surrounded by whānau and friends just doors down from my marae, a place that taught me about community, creativity, and connection. No matter where my career takes me, I make it a priority to return home several times a year, so my kids can experience that same East Coast vibe.
For the past six years, I’ve been working under the name SixOneNine, building a studio grounded in culturally led design and meaningful storytelling. It’s my way of giving back to my community and creating space to focus on Indigenous-led and culturally grounded projects that honour where we come from while speaking confidently into contemporary contexts.
People often ask if that means I only do Māori, Polynesian or cultural work. The answer is no. I do good work. Strategic work. Thoughtful work. Culture just happens to be part of how I think, not a limitation on what I can do. My cultural mindset does not narrow my work, it elevates it.
Part of my journey was shaped inside mainstream agency systems. That experience did not disappear. I carry it into everything I do and combine it with cultural insight to create something stronger, more meaningful, and more distinctive for the people and organisations I work with.
Now based in Brisbane, I’m focused on creating work that has purpose, design that makes people feel something, that connects culture and community, and that adds a little good back into the world.
Expertise
Art Direction, Graphic Design, Branding, Digital Design, UI Design, Packaging, Illustration, Apparel Design, Animation, Editing, Mobile Apps and Social Media.
Skills
Adobe creative suite - Photoshop, InDesign. Illustrator, After Effects, Premiere.
Figma, Midjourney.