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Puawai Cairns has a diverse range of work experience, primarily in the museum and arts sectors. Puawai began their career in 2001 as an Education Advisor and Research Coordinator at Te W�nanga o Aotearoa. In 2003, they joined the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa as a Concept Developer. Puawai then worked at Tar Baby Talent Ltd. as the Owner and Creative Director. From 2007 to 2011, they worked at Creative New Zealand as a Policy and Projects Advisor for M�ori Arts. Returning to the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in 2011, they held various roles including Curator, Senior Curator, and Head of M�tauranga M�ori. Puawai'smost recent position is the Director of Audience and Insights.

From 1996 to 2001, Puawai Cairns attended The University of Waikato where they pursued a Master of Arts degree with First Class Honours. Puawai'sfield of study focused on Screen and Media / English. Notably, they became the first M�ori graduate to achieve an MA in English from Waikato University.