Uncle Tamahae Elkington was born in Porirua, Aotearoa, with spina bifida at a time when doctors didn’t know how to support children and their families with disabilities.

Being hospitalised for two years from a baby, early institutionalisation planted a seed of anger he didn’t yet understand — an anger that followed him into adulthood.

Growing up tough, learning to fight in boys’ homes, surrounded by violence and survival, he found himself pulled into gangs and a life of crime.
When his parents moved to Brisbane, Australia he joined them — but the cycle continued. Petty crime turned into heavier offences and prison became a reality.

To escape more prison time, he returned to Aotearoa.
There, something shifted and he was made to attend Te Wananga Raukawa. Three years later he finishes with a degree.

But the real turning point?
A men’s group.
He attended the same course 3 times, a total of 3 years.

Through that journey, he re-discovered his worth, value and voice.
He began healing and found solace in music, meeting people and travelling.

Today, Uncle Tamahae proudly adorned with his moko kanohi, grounded in culture, wisdom, and self-awareness.
Living with spina bifida, having lost his leg, and wheelchair-bound from the age of 16, he refuses to let anything define or limit him.

It is proof that:
* It’s never too late to heal.
* Your past does not decide your future.
* A disability does not disable your life.
* And no matter how far you’ve fallen, you can rise with dignity and mana.

We are deeply honoured to share this kōrero.

Share this with someone who needs hope ❤️
And let us know what part of Uncle Tamahae’s journey moved you the most.