Ruia is an accomplished musician, singer, composer and visual artist and has produced a number of albums and art pieces dedicated to his passion for Te Reo Māori.

His other passion is education for over 20 years teaching from new entrants to adult education.

Ruia grew up with his father, Rāpine Aperahama with many of his uncles and aunties both in Te Hapua and Rātana Pā who were strong stalwarts of Ngāti Kurī language and customs.

Ruia is currently contracted as a researcher for Ngā Wai a Te Tūī, Auckland Unitec. Ruia is part of our kahui taurapa for Te Mana o Rangitāhua and represents a strong source of wisdom and knowledge that helps steer our team