Ko Takitimu te waka
Ko Tama-tea-ariki-nui te tangata
Ko te Whaanga-a-Ruawharo te moana
Ko Te-wairoa te awa
Ko Kahungungu te iwi
Ko Blaine Terito ahau

I am a Maori artist specialising in carving of native wood, as well as other mediums such as bone, ivory and pounamu (NZ Jade).

Over the last few years I have had the privilege of traveling to many international venues with  New Zealand’s government arts body-Creative New Zealand / Te Waka Toi, as an ambassador for Maori culture in the visual and performing arts, specifically whakairo – carving.

I am also a registered ‘Toi Iho’ artist, which is a government granted trademark of authenticity and quality of my work as a Maori artist.

Initially self taught until I was 15, then I received formal training from Hohepa Tamihana Hapi (Uncle Joe) of Ngati Kahungunu and Tuwharetoa lineage. I had the privilege of being mentored by various leaders in the arts including Buck Nin, Ngapo Bub Wehi, and Betty Smith.

Following on from my formal training I have had the privilege of working on many projects with other artists over the last 30 years. This has allowed me to expand my knowledge and skills in various styles, techniques and continue to learn.

I believe in maintaining a high level of artistic integrity in my work.
Kia puta ake matou ki te whei ao, ki te ao maarama.

I enjoy carving commission work as I am able to explore the client’s thoughts, then individualise the carving so the piece meets its purpose.

Every carving I do is unique and captures the whakaaro (thoughts) and wairua (spirit) of both myself and the person or organisation who has commissioned it.
 
I work from my home in Auckland, Aotearoa, New Zealand, where I live with my children and partner.

My lineage is:
Kahungunu – Wairoa
Ngati Waiora – Lake Ohia
Te Rarawa – Kaitaia
Nga Puhi  - Hokianga
English - Kent
Irish