Earlier this year, Hinehou Timutimu was named the 2026 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year and became the first Māori woman to receive the award. But this episode is about more than an award. It is about the whānau, whenua, values and experiences that shaped her, the doors that were opened for her, and the doors she now wants to open for others. With Brooke Sinclair and Jac McGowan, she reflects on leadership, belonging, courage and what becomes possible when you stay true to who you are.

Watch more:

• Te Karere 
• Pūkāea 

Read more:

• Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year 2026 Announced - Dairy Women's Network
• New Zealand Farm Environment Trust – Hinehou as a 2023 finalist
• Te Tawa Kaiti Lands Trust – Learn about the trust Hinehou leads as General Manager and its work.

Have feedback or ideas for future episodes? Email us at talkingdairy@dairynz.co.nz

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