Takatāpui writer paving the way for community
By University of Otago | Posted: Tuesday Dec 16, 2025
Essa Ranapiri (Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Pūkeko, Te Arawa) has become the first Māori PhD graduate from the University’s English programme to have written specifically on Māori literature.
Not that Essa is focused on “firsts”, much preferring to acknowledge the long line of thinkers, scholars, and writers who've gone before them.
They’re also proud to provide insight and representation for queer and Māori scholars to draw inspiration from.
“I want all the incredible, aspiring smart kids to take what I've done and build on it in all the ways that matter most. I hope that being here and now will encourage others to believe in their wonderful whakaaro and share it with the world,” they say