This interview centres on the life and legacy of Ngāpuhi rangatira Tāmati Wāka Nene through the reflections of his descendant, Benjamin Pittman. Drawing on whakapapa and oral histories, Pittman explores ’Nene’s role in a period of transition in Aotearoa, including the events surrounding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the relationships between Māori leaders, missionaries and settlers.

Pittman discusses Nene alongside his elder brother Eruera Maihi Patuone, describing how the brothers worked together while embodying contrasting leadership qualities. He argues that Patuone and Nene recognised the permanence of Pākehā settlement and sought to navigate a future that balanced Māori interests with the opportunities presented by new technologies, trade and knowledge. Pittman also highlights Nene’s connection to figures within the wider Ngāpuhi leadership, including Tari, Te Wharerahi, Moka and Rewa.

Pittman considers the continuing relevance of Nene’s legacy for Māori today. He reflects on education, migration, and the transmission of mātauranga Māori across generations, emphasising the responsibility of caring for inherited knowledge while adapting to change. Pittman presents Tāmati Wāka Nene not only as a key historical figure, but as a source of guidance for future generations.