taramea publishing

Taramea Publishing Limited was established in April, 2008 by Candice Paewai Reading. Candice is a former teacher, osteopath and naturopath, practising the latter two in London. Unable to continue in practice after a spinal injury, Candice turned to writing. Her research and interests since her return to New Zealand in June 1999 have taken her down the path of her ancestors (tupuna); into the ngāhere (New Zealand forest), amongst the native flora and fauna; into the ocean, the realm of Tangaroa; and into healing and rongoa (Māori herbal medicine).

 

Choosing a name:

Taramea is the name of a plant which was highly valued by Māori ancestors for its perfume (kākaramea). In choosing a name, Candice thought long and hard. Several names came forth, but did not stick. After two years of indecision, Candice decided to look towards her turangawaewae (home town, family roots), to her maunga (mountain) and to ‘te Wao Nui a Tāne’ (the kingdom of Tāne Mahuta, god of the forests). Bingo! The plant named taramea sprang forth. Taramea, also known as spear grass, amongst other places is found on the Ruahine Ranges which overlook her home town, Tamaki-nui-a rua or Dannevirke. Candice’s great grandmother, Rangirangi Mariana Paewai was the rangatira of Ngati Mutuahi (Ngati Rangiwhakaewa) a hapū of the Rangitāne tribe. Her expertise in traditional Māori healing became known throughout the country after she succeeded in helping the famous All Black George Nepia, a close friend of her youngest son Lui Paewai, also an All Black. CLICK for full story. Rangirangi’s eldest son was Te Wirihana Paewai, Candice’s koro (grandfather). He was married to Te Muri Hoete Ahipene from Ngati Pikiao, Rotoiti. Mavis Paraneha Paewai, Candice’s mother was their second eldest of nine. Candice acknowledges the gifts and knowledge that her tipuna have passed on through the generations, ngā taonga tuku iho.