Instructor, TeWa nanga o Raukawa, Otaki, New Zealand; formerly Ma ori Liaison, Mary Potter Hospice, Wellington, New Zealand

Puhiwahine was born about 1816 on the Taringamotu Stream opposite the Petania pa. Her father was Rawiri Te Rangihirawea, who was a close relative of Te Heuheu Horonuku's wife, and her mother was Hinekiore, a famous song leader and a high priestess of the bird cult. Puhiwahine learnt from her mother the traditions and songs and dances of her people and at an early age became an accomplished performer at Ngati Tuwharetoa gatherings. In these years she travelled widely, visited many tribes, and composed many waiatas and action songs. Some of her love songs and lullabies enjoyed wide popularity. Her plaintive He Waiata Aroha mo Te Mahuta Te Toko is still sung as a farewell at tribal gatherings.

end of life, family carers, hospice,Ma¯ori, New Zealand, palliative care.