Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Hine

James grew up in Maketu on the East Coast of the North Island of Aotearoa - New Zealand. His Mother is of Ngā Puhi and Ngāti Hine, from Pipiwai in Northland.
After separating from his pakeha father while hapū (pregnant) with James, his Mother moved to Maketu, met and married his stepfather (Dad) who is of Te Arawa and Ngāti Mākino.

At the age of 12 James learnt to surf at Maketu and since then surfing and the ocean has featured predominantly in James’s life.
James began carving traditional Māori designs and surf icons, creating many trophies for New Zealand Surf competitions.

Working with native wood, MDF and paint, James's work has evolved and developed into signature designs inspired by his love of the ocean and the spiritual beauty of contemporary Māori art.
James works from his home studio in Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty and his work has sold to both local and international collectors.