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Ko wai au?
Who am I?

Ko Taranaki Maunga tōku maunga

Ko Waitara, ko Urenui, ko Mimi ōku awa

Ko Ngāti Mutunga, ko Ngāti Tama, ko Te Ātiawa ōku iwi

Ko Tangira rāua ko Bertrand ōku whānau

Nō Waitara ahau

Ko Kayla Dove Tangira ahau

Maunga Taranaki is my mountain

Waitara, Urenui, and Mimi are my rivers

Ngāti Mutunga, Ngāti Tama, and Te Ātiawa are my people

I descend from the families Tangira and Bertrand

I’m from Waitara

I am Kayla Dove Tangira

My Story

Kia ora, I’m Kayla Dove. A creative soul, a storyteller, a māmā, and a woman who’s walked through fire to find her way home.

My journey has been anything but linear. From navigating pain and survival to embracing healing and creativity, I’ve slowly rebuilt a life that feels like mine. After years away, I returned to Aotearoa to reconnect with my whakapapa, my purpose, and my voice. A voice I now share openly through poetry, design, and kōrero that heals.

I believe in the power of being real. The kind of raw truth that helps others feel less alone. That’s why my work weaves together storytelling, visual design, and spoken word, all anchored in the belief that we heal louder when we heal together.

This space is more than just a portfolio. It’s a reflection of the growth, grounding, and grit that shaped me. Whether I’m creating websites, writing poetry, designing prints, or holding space for others to share their stories, my heart is always in it.

Thank you for being here. I hope something in these words, designs, or moments reminds you that your story matters too.

Ngā mihi nui

Kayla Dove