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While she started the business HAKA tuku-iho as part of the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) programme, the 17-year-old wishes to continue and work on it even after school. Henare hopes to expand her product range and other Kapa Haka products too.

She has made over 100 poi so far.

Henare said Kapa Haka played a big role in the growth of her language and beliefs.

"My father introduced the language to me at a very young age and I learnt most of Tikanga (customs and traditional values) and Te Reo through Kapa Haka.

"I make poi and when I sell it, I teach Tikanga around poi and other Māori taonga. I explain the names of different parts of the theatrical prop, such as the pōro (ball), taura (chord) and hukahuka (tassel).

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