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First of its kind in Aotearoa: This is a first children’s story written about a first menstruation through a Maori cultural framework. In tis narrative we honour the works and teachings of Dr Ngahuia Murphy, acknowleding her revival of the rich matauranga around ikura that we are so fortunate to have access to today.
Culturally affirming: This pukapuka emphasises ceremony, family support and ancestral wisdom – it also includes a specially written karakia by Stacey Morrison for whanau to learn and share in together.
Beautifully produced: With premium finishes and lush, full-colour illustrations, Isobel Joy Te Aho-White brought Papatuanuku to the page using kokowai (earth pigments) throughout the book, and Chloe Reweti hand drew the cover title font.
Authentic Indigenous Voice: Written and self-pubished by Qiane Matata-Sipu, this story draws on her own lived experiences and those of her whanau.
Education-friendly: Peer-reviewed by puberty and health professionals, mothers, women and young girls, this story supports conversations in kura, classrooms and at home about periods, wellbeing and identity.
About the creators
Qiane Matata-Sipu MNZM (Te Waiohua, Waikato, Ngapuhi, Ngati Pikiao, Cook Islands) is a trailblazer, a storytelling leader and cultural disrupter whose books are essential stock for readers seeking authenticity, influence and profound narratives. Resonating deeply with modern readers seeking diverse voices and cultural wisdom her books are more than stand alone titles; they’re part of a wider movement that promotes self-worth, community connection and a blueprint for thriving through Indigenous female knowledge. Based in Tamaki Makaurau Auckland, Qiane’s leadership is rooted in a clear, personal purpose: to amplify the voices of marginalised people and change the narrative for future generations. Qiane won the 2021 New Zealand Women of Influence Award for arts and culture and in 2023 was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to the arts. Her book NUKU: Stories of 100 Indigenous Women was shortlisted for the Booksellers Aotearoa New Zealand Award for Illustrated Non-Fiction in the 2022 Ockham New Zealand Book Awards and finalist of the Allen & Unwin Award for Best Commercial Book for Adults in the PANZ book design awards that same year. Her children’s book Ng- Kupenga a Nanny Rina / Nanny Rina’s Amazing Nets won a 2024 Storylines Notable Book Award (te reo M-ori) and was shortlisted in the 2025 New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults.
