MY HOLIDAY: MOANA MANIOPOTO

What are the strongest memories from your first overseas trip?

As a 17-year-old in London, dragging my suitcase up the road in heavy snow — fantasising about lying lakeside in a New Zealand summer.

What was a standard family holiday like when growing up?

Every Christmas, our family headed to Lake Taupo¯ where our extended wha¯ nau would share a big ha¯ kari (feast) under the apple trees behind the old homestead. Each of my dad’s siblings commandeered a bedroom for their own family. I’d organise my siblings and cousins into a troop of entertainers and we’d perform in the homes of our elders. Fishing, eating, singing.

Who has most inspired your travels?

My band manager, Sol de Sully, has gifted me so many countries through our tours.

What is the greatest trip you’ve ever had?

Every trip where my family has joined my band.

And the worst?

One band tour in Taiwan. It was incredibly hot and we were micro-managed by our lovely hosts.

What is the destination that most surprised you — good or bad?

Taiwan. Great urban spaces, exciting creative hubs, beautiful landscapes, lovely people and awesome seafood. Ma¯ ori also share a distant