Mare Riki

(Ngāti Ranginui, Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāpuhi)

If you've ever considered an unconventional journey into journalism, look no further than Mare Haimona-Riki, a multi-talented individual whose diverse life experiences have shaped him into a dynamic reporter and multimedia journalist. From selling pest control to missionary work, wedding videography, and assisting in construction, Mare's path to becoming a respected journalist for Te Ao Māori News at Whakaata Māori is anything but typical.

Born in the quaint town of Ngawha near Kaikohe, Mare spent his formative years growing up in the Far North with his family. His childhood memories are filled with weekends spent riding horses in the beautiful Hokianga settlement of Rangi Point, where he cherished a real rural upbringing.

Mare's journey took him from Auckland to Queenstown, where he experienced life in the South Island resort town, proving to be an eye-opening experience for the young tama. After returning to Tauranga, his interest in news and journalism blossomed, inspired by watching iconic figures like, Clint Brown, Neil Waka, and John Campbell, and Scotty Morrison on Te Karere.

From an early age, Mare displayed a natural talent for public speaking, envisioning a career in journalism or presenting. Armed with a family handycam, he conducted interviews at family reunions and parties, honing his skills as a storyteller and communicator.

His pursuit of journalism led him to travel to Australia, London, and eventually, Hawaii, where he studied communications and journalism at Brigham Young University. But Mare's journey took an unexpected turn when he worked as a door-to-door salesman in Utah, selling pest control plans to infested households. Surprisingly, this experience contributed significantly to his confidence and communication abilities, which he now skillfully applies in his role as a journalist.

Mare's approach to journalism is far from conventional. He finds passion in sharing stories of athletes, musicians, slam poets, and other young talents who often go unnoticed by mainstream media due to their background or limited resources. His dedication to shining a light on the unheralded voices is a testament to his commitment to amplifying diverse perspectives.

Working for Whakaata Māori provides Mare with the opportunity to bring these inspiring stories to the forefront, encouraged by the network's support for unique and underrepresented narratives. As a reporter and multimedia journalist, he not only covers events and news but embraces the chance to tell stories that truly matter and make a difference.

Mare Haimona-Riki's journey to becoming a journalist showcases the power of embracing diverse experiences and the unique perspectives they bring. With a passionate heart for championing the voices of rangatahi (young people), Mare's impact reaches far beyond the realm of traditional news. His engaging storytelling and dedication to empowering others make him an exceptional speaker for your business events.

If you're looking to inspire your audience with a speaker who embodies resilience, creativity, and the art of storytelling, Mare Haimona-Riki is the perfect choice. Book him today to enrich your event with powerful narratives and a fresh perspective that will resonate with all attendees.