M9: Rugby star Matua Parkinson on his dyslexia and why he's at University learning te reo

M9 is a ground-breaking hybrid of 'Ted Talks', a theatre show and a ‘micro’ conference, and designed to be accessible to all Aotearoa, M9 presents nine unique Māori voices in celebration of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori through Whakaaturanga, Whakaari, Whakawhiti Kōrero - Presentation Performance , Conversation.

To celebrate Te Wiki o te reo Māori M9 presented Whiua ki te ao! - Cast the Māori language to the world!

Motivational Speaker, Mixed Media Presenter, Culturally Intelligent, Successful Rugby Player & Coach, Hunter - Gatherer Obsessed. Matua (Te Whānau a Apanui, Te Āti Haunui a Pāpārangi) was raised in the small coastal town of Te Kaha. He attended the local area primary school and finished his secondary schooling at the prestigious Māori Boys Boarding school, St Stephens. He now currently resides in the beautiful Tauranga Moana. From very humble beginnings to a familiar face on the world sporting stage with his vast rugby achievements that span over 15 years, Matua was a member of the Blues, Hurricanes & NZ Māori rugby teams, and captained his NZ Sevens team to victory in a world championship.

A very proud Dad of 3 sons with a huge love for his whānau and a natural lure for the wild. A successful television presenter on the award - winning sports show CODE. He has now moved behind the camera & produced a new show starting next month on Whakaata Māori.

He has always been a passionate & proud advocate for Māori Health and was an elected member of the BOP District Health Board for 9 years. Unorthodox & unpolished with a gregarious personality, Matua is as subtle as a wild boar but with a mix of authentic Māori charm. A sought-after public speaker with a down-to-earth delivery but often finishing with a standing ovation.