Story: Gender diversity

Peri Te Wao

Peri Te Wao

Peri Te Wao (Te Arawa) was born into a female body but always regarded himself as male. He says he is heartened by Māori elders who embrace all whānau members and recognise potential leaders regardless of their gender identity. Te Wao founded FtM Aotearoa (a female-to-male transgender support group) in 1999. 'I am firstly Māori, secondly a husband, and thirdly a friend to many communities.'

Human Rights Commission, 'To be who I am'

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Human Rights Commission - Te Kāhui Tika Tangata
Photograph by Rebecca Swan

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How to cite this page:

Johanna Schmidt, 'Gender diversity - Māori and Pasifika gender identities', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/28836/peri-te-wao (accessed 21 March 2023)

Story by Johanna Schmidt, published 5 May 2011, reviewed & revised 4 May 2021 with assistance from Gender Minorities Aotearoa