Since receiving her moko kauae and turning 50, the Breakfast presenter has discovered a new sense of freedom and self-expression. After marking her 50th birthday and receiving her moko kauae (traditional Māori chin tattoo) in April this year, Jenny-May Clarkson is celebrating a newfound sense of freedom. Smiling, the Breakfast presenter says it’s been a liberating experience to welcome the milestone birthday and embrace being unapologetically herself.
“As I turn 50, I’m acutely aware of how much time I’ve got left and there’s an urgency about the way I live my life,” she says. “My dad [Waka Coffin] was very humble and instilled in us that we’re only here because of our tūpuna [ancestors]. I was always very thoughtful about what I did and said, and how it would reflect on my family.
“I still have that in mind, but I’m also learning to be a bit more me. There’s more willingness to explore who I am at 50, and I’m finding the freedom to express myself more than I have previously and not being afraid to say things.” This discovery has also inspired the former Silver Fern to encourage her 8-year-old twin sons Te Manahau and Atawhai to more than ever be themselves.
“With my tama [children], it’s about finding balance between humility and respect for those who went before us, and expressing themselves,” says Jenny-May. “I want to lift my boys up and celebrate everything about them so they’re not waiting as long as me to celebrate being Māori .