Born in Gisborne, New Zealand, Te Ao o Hinepehinga (pronounced as ‘TEE’) has carved a singular and powerful artistic path. Her story began at the crossroads of dance and activism, with one foot always in the arts and the other firmly rooted in defending her Māori culture. Before fully committing to acting, she explored the world of dance in Australia, almost by chance, and turned that experience into a luminous chapter of her life. Years later, her vocation found a natural home in front of the camera, where she has already left her mark on productions like Breakwater and Head High.
We sat down with Te Ao o to talk about her role in “Chief of War,” the highly anticipated Apple TV+ series led by Jason Momoa, in which she plays Kupuohi, the wife of Kaʻiana. Throughout the conversation, Te Ao o also reflected on what it means to be part of a story told by and for Polynesian peoples, highlighting the importance of keeping alive the tradition of storytelling from within.
Tell us a bit about your beginnings: What led you from dancing in Australia to pursuing acting after graduating with a degree in the Arts?
Dance was an unexpected detour. I went to Australia in hopes of exploring their film and TV industry, and a dancer I happened to be working with at the time asked if I would be interested in trying out for her dance company. My mom had dreams of being a professional dancer when she was young, so it was her dream, and I explored what that opportunity had to offer. I am so glad that I did; those years were some of the highlights of my 20s.
You’ve had standout roles in New Zealand series, like Breakwater (2022). In what ways do you think that role prepared you for a production like Chief of War?
Though I booked Breakwater in NZ, it was actually my very first international production. I was still quite young on the scene, so I only had a couple of years of experience on a set. Honestly, I’m really glad I got to do that before Chief of War. It helped me understand how the industry worked in the US and made my transition to Chief of War that much easier. Film and television are technically similar, no matter where you learn to play, but the nuance of the world we work in is unique to the country, so it was a big change coming from Aotearoa.
In Chief of War, you play Kupuohi, the wife of Kaʻiana (Jason Momoa). What drew you to this character and the dynamic between her and Kaʻiana?
I remember reading the script, the very first audition, and when I read Kupuohi, she sang to me. I was enamored by this woman who could hold love and strength in a way that I had only seen in my own community. There was an authenticity I had experienced but never seen, and that excited me! Here was a woman who truly embodied the female experience from an indigenous perspective, and I wanted to see everything! I never imagined someone would let me live her journey. I couldn’t be more honored and grateful to tell her story.
The series, which premiered on August 1, 2025, is set in late 18th-century Hawai‘i and told from an indigenous perspective. What does it mean to you to be part of this historic narrative with a predominantly Polynesian cast?
As Taika Waititi said in his Oscar-winning speech, “We are the original storytellers.” Indigenous people around the world have kept their history and culture alive through traditional storytelling. To take that tradition and bring it into the new medium of storytelling while maintaining its authenticity is no small feat. This is the result of several generations of indigenous people around the world fighting to maintain our traditions. It is because of them we stand here today, and it is for them that we will continue to bring more indigenous stories to the world.
The trailer shows intense scenes and striking cinematography. What challenges did you face filming in locations that can be both physically demanding and emotionally intense, especially for you, as an indigenous activist who understands the sacred value of the land?
I mean, this show went through some serious weather-related challenges… Drought, volcanic eruption, cyclones. But really, it added to it! The indigenous experience is felt through the land, the water, and the living world around us. That is what it means to live authentically from the indigenous perspective, so to do that through the process felt right. Crazy sometimes, but we kept each other alive in the challenge, and it made for some great laughs on set!
Jason Momoa is deeply invested in this series; he called it his Polynesian Braveheart and is involved as creator, writer, actor, producer, and director. What was it like working alongside someone with such a strong presence in every creative aspect?
As an artist, it’s always exciting to be part of a passion project. There’s a purpose to it, a substance that is built out of complete obsession and exploration. That’s what this project was, and it had everything to do with Jason’s leadership. His commitment to his people meant we had complete access to every piece of source material, and that is GOLD. That’s an actor’s dream! It builds the foundation of the world we get to live in. Questions have answers, and leaders want the truth. It’s not just about telling a story; it’s about bringing a whole world to life. That’s what it meant to have a Kanaka Maoli at the head of this project.
What was the most challenging or emotional scene for you while portraying Kupuohi?
Her patience was a challenge. There were early discussions on her journey through season one, and it was agreed she would be the voice of reason in every scenario, in every confrontation. And I struggled with that. How could I justify her not losing her shit? I was raised by a Polynesian/Pacifica woman who did not take shit. They were honest, raw, and open; they had no problem telling you when you needed to pull your head in. But nothing about that experience was level-headed; it was vicious and raw. Kupuohi chooses people over her own feelings, and with that comes a level-headedness that I have yet to discover. Maybe that comes with age. Ask me again in 10 years, and I might have a different answer. I hope so, HA!
Was there a moment during filming that personally moved or marked you?
There was a moment when we relocated to Hawai’i Island (Big Island) to film a battle that took place during a volcanic eruption. The evening we landed to film, Mauna Loa actually erupted for the first time in 75 years. It was as if Pele herself had awoken to say, “This is my story, and I am here.” It was a reminder that our tipuna and atua were watching and guiding the journey of this production, and that brought me great comfort because I knew they would keep us true to the mission of this production.
Outside of acting, you’re passionate about indigenous activism, native land protection, yoga, running, and cooking. How do you integrate those passions into your life, and what message would you like to share with the audience?
I think the beauty of this industry is that you have free time when you’re waiting for the next project. And to my fellow actors, I know that sounds insane, but there is nothing worse than waiting to know when your next job will come. I’ve learned to create opportunity in the quiet. It’s what keeps me alive and gives me purpose when the work has dried up. Space to give back and share the moment with my community and give back to the people who helped me get to where I am. There is little in this business that is within your control, but how you choose to spend that time is your decision alone. There is power in that; don’t waste it.
Looking ahead, what projects or aspirations are on the horizon for you? Will you continue combining acting and activism? Is there a dream, on screen or in your advocacy, that you still hope to fulfill?
I don’t know what’s next for me. I let go of expectations a long time ago and have chosen to just charge ahead, giving every opportunity my all and trusting that whatever is right for me will find me if I stay true to the work. I wouldn’t mind playing on a film set and learning how things work to tell stories on the silver screen. Furthermore, I like trying new things, testing the boundaries of my acting, and seeing what comes of it. Life has provided beautiful challenges for me so far, and I’m excited to see what new challenges await me next.
photos/Robert Trathen
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