Wan Tok|Wan Solwora Stories: May Edition

Kira Hundleby: A Beacon of Melanesian Heritage and Creative Excellence

Kira Hundleby, a talented Singer/Songwriter and Creative Producer, calls Pōneke, Aotearoa, home. With a rich cross-cultural heritage, Kira's roots stretch from Lau Lagoon, a remote tribal village in Malaita Province of the Solomon Islands through her mother, to Seddon, Blenheim in the South Island of New Zealand through her father, who is of British ancestry.

Kira actively engages with arts, community, and social justice spaces within Pacific and international communities. Her recent appointment as the Public Programme Specialist Pasifika at Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum, highlights her dedication to cultural engagement and her passion for celebrating Pacific arts.

In addition to her role at Te Papa, Kira represents Melanesia for the Wellington City Pacific Advisory Group. She is also Co-Chair of the Melanesian Steering Group to the Ministry for Pacific Peoples and has co-founded Melanesian Women and Friends. Her work in creative production and stage management with the Wellington City Council events team for the annual Pasifika and Waitangi Day Festivals, WOMAD, and CubaDupa festivals showcases her commitment to promoting and preserving cultural heritage through the arts. Kira has also co-founded Hundleby and Chalmers Productions and played a key role in the World Peace Day Festival 2015.

Kira's artistic journey has been marked by significant achievements, including receiving the Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM). This prestigious honor was bestowed upon her by the Governor-General of New Zealand, Her Excellency Cindy Kiro, at Government House. The ceremony, accompanied by a delightful High Tea, was a moment of profound joy and recognition, personally signed by King Charles III of the House of Windsor.

Reflecting on this achievement, Kira shared her heartfelt emotions:

"A beautiful weekend with whānau, loved ones, and friends for a memorable lifetime achievement. Wish my Mama and Papa were here with me to see it. Hand delivered MNZM by the Governor-General of New Zealand, Her Excellency Cindy Kiro at Government House with a delicious High Tea with bubbles - personally signed by King Charles III of the House of Windsor. Creating memories, sharing love and company of some truly great people, especially with my treasured ones, and being overwhelmed by the joyous celebrations of community and the ongoing scent of gorgeous flowers. Forever grateful and humbled by this journey of my life and dreaming of where perhaps it might take me next."

Kira’s story is a celebration of the arts and culture, highlighting the power of creative expression in fostering community and preserving heritage. Her journey inspires us all to embrace our cultural roots, pursue our artistic passions, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Pacific arts.

Stay tuned for more Wan Tok| Solwora Stories, where we continue to celebrate the incredible achievements of Pacific Islanders in arts and culture within their communities around the world and in the subregion of Melanesia. We congratulate Mrs. Hundleby on her achievement and wish her continued success in her artistic endeavors and as an agent of change in social justice spaces! Tangio tumas and nga mihi nui, Kira, for your many contributions to our Melanesian spaces in Aotearoa!
Pictures Credit - Kira Hundleby