Value-Based Narratives With Bespoke Storytelling

We are not for everyone. But if we believe in your story as much as you do then creating a compelling narrative is easy. In fact this is when the magic happens. So, if you want impact that can change the world - then work with us to craft genuine and authentic stories.

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He aha ngā mahi a

Tū Mai Te Toki Communications?

What does Tū Mai Te Toki Communications offer

Tu Mai Te Toki Communications began as a rudimental blog. An unflinching look into iwi politics, the blog focused on sharing information in the interest of transparency and accountability. So, it’s these same values that form the ethos of Tū Mai Te Toki.

Nā reira, Tū Mai Te Toki is a company offering strategic communications, engagement and public relation services through value-based storytelling.

A hand touching green leaves, with a red sleeve featuring geometric patterns.
Person in a red velvet garment with decorative cuffs touching green leaves in a garden.

Ko wai te kaiwhiwhi o Tū Mai Te Toki

Who is the founder of Tū Mai Te Toki Communications

Karla Akuhata, founder Tū Mai Te Toki, stands in a lush green forest.

Karla Akuhata

Weaving relationships into powerful storytelling is my passion—but I’m at my best when the story is one I truly believe in. As a values-driven communicator, I partner with organisations and projects that align with my principles, ensuring that every narrative I craft is not only compelling but also authentic and meaningful.

I want to work with people who seek to inspire through strategic and creative storytelling. I want to use words and images to create messages that are clear, compelling and culturally attuned. But, most of all, I want to tell stories that resonate deeply and create lasting impact.

Work with me and the team at Tū Mai Te Toki to tell stories that matter.

Read more here.

Ratonga

Te Rangitaki o

Tū Mai Te Toki

Tū Mai Te Toki - the blog

Featured
Why We Write
Why We Write

Why do we write submissions? Because they are also stories—of whakapapa, whenua, and resistance. At Tū Mai Te Toki, our words are a form of kaitiakitanga, used to uphold mana motuhake and protect the mauri of our taonga. In partnership with Te Rōpū Pounanao, we’ve crafted submissions that embed mātauranga Māori into national strategies, challenge harmful legislation, and amplify the voices of iwi-led conservation. Read the blog and hear from Rapata Kopae as he shares what kaitiakitanga means to him.

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Budget Fall Out - Ko te Kōrero te Ara
Budget Fall Out - Ko te Kōrero te Ara

Budget 2025 has seen the removal of vital kaupapa like Predator Free Limited and the Mātauranga Kura Taiao Fund — moves that threaten progress in environmental protection and Māori-led solutions. In this blog, we reflect on the power of kōrero as our sharpest tool: how authentic storytelling, strategic engagement, and values-based communication can continue to carve pathways toward mana motuhake and rangatiratanga, even in challenging times.

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Authenticity Drives Connection
Authenticity Drives Connection

In this blog, I reflect on the value of showing up with honesty over perfection. I share a personal moment of writer’s block, the pressure of consistency, and the new kaupapa I’ve joined to support wild animal management in Aotearoa. It’s a reminder that meaningful storytelling starts with being real — and that’s exactly what we stand for at Tū Mai Te Toki.

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