In this edition of People of Te Tōangaroa, we’re excited to introduce Amalia Reweti and Rawinia Maihi, the powerhouse duo behind Ara Media. Amalia and Rawinia are behind the Te Tōangaroa socials capturing the many special moments in our community and are carving out their own space in the content creation world while bringing a unique Ngāti Whātua and Pasifika perspective to the digital landscape. Let’s get to know them!
Q: Can you introduce yourselves and tell us where you're from?
Amalia: Ko Amalia Reweti ahau, nō Ngāti Whātua, Ngā Puhi me Hāmoa.
Rawinia: Ko Rawinia Maihi ahau, nō Ngāti Whātua.
Together, we are the dynamic duo that makes up Ara Media!
Q: How did you get started as content creators?
Amalia & Rawinia: We've both had different experiences in the content creator space, growing our creative skills in social media production, communications, and videography. It was through this work that we realised how big of a gap there was in the industry for authentic storytellers—for the people, by the people. Social media is our passion, and we wanted to tell our own stories, showing them through a Pasifika and Māori lens. Taking that first step was scary, but we’re blessed to have a solid network of people and organisations that have supported us along the way.
Q: When did you start Ara Media?
We officially launched Ara Media on December 1, 2023. So coming up to the 1 year mark!
Q: What’s it like being your own bosses?
It’s been amazing! Being able to choose the kaupapa (projects) we want to be part of and setting our own working hours is a total game changer. Of course, navigating the challenges of the business world wasn’t easy, but we had the support of our whānau and iwi from the very start. We’re forever grateful for that support as we continue to carve out our path in this creative space.
Q: What’s the best part about creating content for Te Tōangaroa?
Bringing our own Ngāti Whātua flavour to the content has been a highlight. Creating content for our people and the wider community that live in Te Tōangaroa is incredibly rewarding. Plus, we get to take part in the cool things happening here, like Matariki events and the food-truck series.
Q: What does a typical day in your life as content creators look like?
No two days are the same! We have hui, spend time editing, capture content, and of course, squeeze in a gym session.
Q: How do you balance creating content with everything else going on in your lives?
Just like the famous Nike quote, “Just do it!” We make it all work somehow.
Q: Can you share a fun or unexpected blooper moment while creating content?
Once, while trying to capture drone footage for Te Tōangaroa, we got chased by magpies! It was a mix of laughter and tears, but we definitely learned to watch out for birds.
Q: What’s your favourite piece of content you’ve ever created, and why?
We love filming mokopapa wānanga (where people receive traditional Māori tattoo). Capturing those special moments for whānau to look back on is really special.
Q: If you weren’t content creators, what do you think you’d be doing right now?
Something still within the creative space, where no two days are the same.
Q: What’s your favourite social media trend at the moment?
We’re loving the more unfiltered, unedited content that’s trending right now. It’s a good reminder that your uniqueness is your superpower!
Q: Favourite place to eat in Te Tōangaroa?
We’re big fans of the food-truck events held here every month. It’s a great way to get out of the office and enjoy the sunshine.
Q: Hidden gem in Te Tōangaroa?
Superstar Nails! We got to film some content with the lovely ladies there, and it’s a beautiful, relaxing spot. Perfect for a cheeky lunchtime pamper!