Thomas Tamati Ratima of Ko Mauau te Maunga, Ko Ngati Ranginui te Iwi, Ko Takitimu te Waka and Ko Tauranga te Moana

Thomas graduated from Wairiki Polytechnic in 1997. He wanted a traditional base before learning the contemporary arts and crafts and studied at the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, achieving a Diploma as a Traditional Woodcarver in 2000. Presently he mainly carves in Jade.