Sophie Tukukino, (Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāti Maru, Ngāti Kahungunu and Rongomaiwahine) has extensive teaching experience at primary, secondary and tertiary levels.

As Pou Whanake of Ngā Kura ā Iwi o Aotearoa, ānd past Tumuaki of Te Kura Māori o Porirua Sophie utilises her skills and knowledge in Kaupapa Māori education to support Tumuaki and Kaiako from throughout Aotearoa.

Sophie holds a Tāhuhu Whakaakoranga from Te Wānanga o Raukawa. She has served on several Boards and committees, including Ngā Kura ā-Iwi Executive, Te Akatea NZ Maori Principal’s Association, NZEI Te Riu Roa and Ngā Manu Kōrero Regional and National Committees.

Raised in Upper Hutt, most of Sophie’s immediate whānau continue to live locally. Collectively, the whānau enjoy a range of cultural, sporting and community opportunities as well as the beauty of Awakairangi.