Michaela Keeble is a lover of birds, fish and social justice, who also publishes poetry and short fiction. She grew up on Wurundjeri land in Australia and now lives on the Kāpiti Coast. Paku Manu Ariki Whakatakapōkai is based on conversations with her son Kerehi Grace (Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Ngāti Porou).