Olivia Aroha Giles

Olivia Aroha Giles is a Māori writer, artist and designer from New Zealand. Known for her work in children's literature, contemporary novels and short stories, her themes often explore strong, independent women. Her notable works include Heart of the Tapu Stone (2013), part of the Threads through the Whariki trilogy, and The Eldest Girl (2024), a family drama spanning generations.

Olivia Aroha Giles was born in Wainuiomata. Giles is descended from Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāti Kahungunu, Te Ati Awa, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Te Atihaunui-ā-Paparangi and Ngāti Hinekawa, with Scottish and English ancestors.

She left school at fifteen and faced early challenges, including an unwed pregnancy and personal struggles, but later transformed her life through education. In 2010, she graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Textiles from Whitireia, New Zealand.

Giles published her first book, Two Homes (2006), through Learning Media. It was widely used in New Zealand primary schools and was later adapted into an audiobook (2008). Her talent for storytelling was recognised when her short story, Stepping Outside the Boxing, was shortlisted for the Pikihuia Short Story Awards, an honour she later described as "always being a bridesmaid".

Her debut novel, Heart of the Tapu Stone (2013), published through Dusky Productions, combines Māori culture with universal themes of identity and belonging. The novel was incorporated into the curriculum at the University of Bonn, where Giles lectured after its translation. The sequel, Feather from the Kakahu, was published in 2015.

The Eldest Girl (2024) is a poignant family drama. Set in the 1960s and 2010, it explores family bonds, loss and resilience. Giles has described the novel as a deeply personal project shaped by years of work: "It's about connections, love and the courage to unravel the threads of our past.

Her success is rooted in overcoming personal and societal barriers. Reflecting on her journey, Giles said, "I never feel good enough, but I write because stories need to be told. She attributes her achievements to the support of her husband, Scotty, who once told her, "Do whatever you want; I just want you to be happy".

Olivia Aroha Giles and her husband, Scotty, live in Ōtaki and have seven children.

Photo credit: mlt.org.nz