Familiar to Kiwi audiences through roles in the acclaimed Head High and ubiquitous Shortland Street, Te Ao o Hinepehinga (Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Kahungunu) is on the cusp of breaking out globally, thanks to her star turn in the upcoming and highly buzzy Chief of War.
In the Apple TV series, premiering on August 1, Te Ao plays Kupuohi, a warrior who also happens to be Ka’iana’s (Jason Momoa’s) wife. Chief of War co-creator and executive producer Momoa worked hard to cast an almost exclusively Polynesian lineup of some of the industry’s biggest names including Cliff Curtis, Temuera Morrison and rising star Luciane Buchanan, to bring this based-on-a-true-story historical account of colonialisation in Hawaii, told from an entirely indigenous perspective.
Fresh from the premiere in O’ahu, where she wore a thoughtfully selected array of outfits courtesy of local talent from Aotearoa and Hawaii (including Zambesi from Tāmaki Makaurau and FOR from Honolulu), Te Ao sat down to share the last beauty product she finished, her preferred drinking partner, love of fantasy novels and much more.
When was the last time you cried?
With my cast mates and hanai 'ohana [chosen family] at the Chief of War premiere. It was an emotional night filled with ALL the aloha!
When was the last time you danced?
In the kitchen this morning, making my morning brew. Had to warm up the toes somehow LOL.
The last time you cooked a meal from scratch, and what did you make?
Literally every meal I make. I LOVE to cook! Whenever I discover a food or cuisine I like, I spend months cooking and experimenting until I perfect a recipe. My most recent conquest, authentic Birria Tacos. I'm pretty proud of them.
When was the last time you had a holiday?
Holiday? What is this holiday you speak of? Never heard of it HA! Any free time I have is back home in Gisborne with my family. It's my favourite place on earth.
What was the last thing you bought – and loved?
Bought my mum a flight to Hawai'i for the Chief of War Premiere, the best purchase I ever made. I couldn't have asked for a better date then my ride or die mama.
When was the last time you got really angry and what was it about?
I honestly can't remember... It takes a lot to get me mad.
What’s the last piece of clothing you bought?
My first pair of Ugg boots! My feet have never felt more toasty.
What’s the last beauty product you finished?
Weleda Skin Food Light. That stuff is magic!
When’s the last time you got drunk?
Mum and I were sipping 1800 Coconut Tequila after the premiere. She's my favourite drinking buddy and tequila is always our drink of choice.
What was the last really delicious thing you ate?
Pork Laulau! Oh my goodness, it's my favourite thing to eat when I'm in Hawai'i.
The last book you finished?
Kingkiller Chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss. It might have been the fourth time I've read that series. It's just that good! (Hurry up and finish the 3rd book Mr Rothfuss)
The last book you recommended to someone else?
Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss. If you read fantasy and you haven't read that book, what are you doing?! Go get a copy right now! (Again, finish the damn series Patrick!)
The last album you listened to the whole way through?
EPIC: The Musical by Jorge Rivera-Herrans. I listen to it A LOT. He's a genius.
The last song you listened to?
I Am by Stan Walker. I have that song on repeat.
What was the last concert or show you attended?
Common Kings at the Chief of War premiere! They lit that shhh UP!
The last TV show you watched?
Friends. I rewatch that show from start to finish at least once a year.
The last DM/text you sent? Who was it to?
BHAHAHA yeah, I'm not sharing that one. What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.
What’s the last fight you had?
With my sisters, over the last pork bone in the boil up pot LOL.
The last time you laughed so much your tummy hurt?
With Luciane Buchanan on the press tour. That girl has a direct line to my funny bone.
When’s the last time you were home?
Three weeks ago. I can never go too long away from my family.
• Chief of War premieres August 1 on Apple TV
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