TAONGA

TAONGA / Treasure is a book where readers go on an interactive journey of self-discovery. As you move through the pages, you’ll be invited to explore your family tree by answering thoughtful questions. After each question, there is space provided for you to write your responses — allowing you to uncover and record your own stories along the way.

From your immediate whānau to your wider family, this personal journey is structured as a timeline of a person’s life. Each chapter focuses on a different stage — for example, Chapter One explores childhood. You’ll find prompts such as “Where was Grandad born?” followed by space to discover and document your answers.

Throughout the book, I have also included pockets for photos capturing moments in time and also poems inviting readers to step into my imagination and reflect alongside me. These creative pieces are woven into the journey, offering moments of reflection, feelings of inspiration, emotions,  and deeper connection.

It is my hope, with love and the up most intention that through this process you’ll uncover meaningful insights not only about yourself, but about your family history ( family tree ) and connections.

MIKE WHAANGA          whaangamichael@gmail.com                                  Kia Ora.                                                                                Nō te riu o nga Waka e rua, Ko Takitimu, Ko Horouta mai i te paerangi o Rāwhiti.                       Ko Mikaere Whaanga ahau.

I am a father, Grandfather and husband married with a blended Whānau of 7 children and 12 grandchildren living in Otaki.For over 45 years I have worn and continue to wear many hats regarding my roles and responsibilities serving communities.

One of my passions is Kaupapa Toi from childhood talents to Commercial and Corporate Advertising returning to our Cultural roots using Art or Kaupapa Toi as the platform in many contexts.I have exhibited nationally and presented overseas, contributed and revived our Marae through Kaupapa Toi/Art as well as in schools and Community events and initiatives.My current practice involves using Art as a mental and emotional therapy towards wellbeing and this is done in a variety of ways.I also support other Whānau with similar  aspirations for the purposes for greater wellbeing of our people no matter how little or how big the inspiration is.

E kore rawa te Kūmara e kōrero ana ki tōna reka.

A kūmara never sings about his own successes, however sometimes you have to give him the microphone to sing at the Karaoke.          Nga Mihi.

                                                                                                       DJ TRUCE LEE https://artistecard.com/DJTRUCELEENZ  

Kia Ora, Kia Orana I go by the name Truce Lee. I Am Maori Ngapuhi - Cook island Pukapuka.

 I have been an independent artist for about 30+ years in the arts such as Graffiti art, Mc'ing, Breakdancing and Dj-ing. I guess some would call it the elements of Hip-hop. 

I also have been working on the art of videography for about four years now. I love making short promo videos for gyms and personal trainers but expanding more each day on my Craft honing in on all my skills I've picked up through living life. 

Being a creative is passion of mine and has been since a young age but also love helping others aswel.

The funding will go to but also dedicated to the Book :

• Professional editing 
• Marketing and promo
• Distribution 
• Materials and Miscellaneous 
• Hard back copies
• Production and manufacturing 
• Paying illustrators 

TĀONGA / Treasure was created from Aroha, inspired by reflections on my beautiful loved ones, and the memories I had the joy of sharing with them.

Have you ever felt a deep yearning for someone who has passed? The longing for their warm embrace, or to hear them call your name one more time? After losing loved ones, I found myself with so many unanswered questions — and a deep appreciation for the memories we shared. From those emotions came the idea to create this book.

This project was guided by faith, belief, and the desire to help others capture stories before they’re lost. TAONGA / Treasure invites us to reflect, remember, and hold onto the people and moments that shape us.

"I HOPE this TAONGA finds its way to where its needed most" 

lesssssssgooooo on an ADVENTURE TOGETHER!!!

The impact i know this TAONGA (Book) will have will leave its mark on the world, Imagine generations and generations being able to read treasured moments and memories from your life long after you've gone. Imagine as the wonder will be filled with adventure and memories, the what ifs will be replaced with tears and laughter and so much more emotions under the sun that you and they get to share even after your gone. 

They will be able to read with their families "YOUR FAMILY TREE" adding their own moments into their TAONGA, The ripple effect is unknown but i believe and feel that it will be a forever journey filled with LOVE.