Robyn Kahukiwa

Robyn Fletcher Kahukiwa (14 September 1938 – 11 April 2025) was a New Zealand artist, children's book author and illustrator. She created a significant collection of paintings, books, prints, drawings, and sculptures.

Background Kahukiwa was born in Sydney, Australia, on 14 September 1938. Through her mother, she was Māori, of Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti, Ngāti Hau, Ngāti Konohi and Te Whānau a Ruataupare descent. She trained as a commercial artist, before moving to New Zealand at the age of 19. Kahukiwa's early artworks were inspired by re-discovering her Māori heritage, which she began doing after moving to New Zealand.

Kahukiwa died in Wellington on 11 April 2025, at the age of 86.

Career From 1972 to 1980, Kahukiwa was a regular exhibitor at the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts in Wellington.

In 1984, Kahukiwa gained prominence in New Zealand after her exhibition Waahine Toa (strong women), which toured the country.

Her picture books, such as Taniwha (1986 ), have allowed both Māori and non-Māori children to access te ao Māori.

In 1995, Kahukiwa exhibited a series named My Ancestors Are Always with Me in New York. She was a "staunch supporter of Māori rights and the power and prestige of Māori women". Her work was influenced by Colin McCahon, Ralph Hotere and Frida Kahlo. 2011 Te Tohu Toi Kē | Making a Difference Award 2020 Te Tohu Aroha mō Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu | Exemplary/Supreme Award