Ko Ngāti Tū me Ngāti Karauria ngā hapū. Ko Ngāti Kahungunu me Ngāti Tuwharetoa ngā iwi.

When Tess was asked if she had a message for the community, her response was "please seek help when needed. You are not alone. I am here to help and connect you. You are valued and you matter".

Outside of mahi Tess enjoys physical activities; being out in tangaroa (ocean) & te ngahere (the forest); spending quality time with her babies and whanau and; being involved in Wānanga.

Tess's greatest achievement in life so far is being blessed with her babies.

Tess holds a Certificate in Hospitality & a Certificate in Social Services, and she's half-way through completing her Social Work Degree.