'His message of resilience, hope, and self-belief was a true inspiration to everyone in the room.'
- The team at Rānui Library, 2025
'He came from a background of abuse and hurt; his mother was raped, as a result he was born. However, he found a way to turn all the hatred and pain into love and fun. Tim is a true role model for children all around the world to admire.'
- Erueti Ranginui, student Wairoa College, 2024
'Tim was awesome! He really engaged and inspired us with his story - and was the highlight of the conference for many. Excellent experience, and highly recommended!'
- Jo Murphy, Marketing and Brand Manager, Wilson Parking, 2021
'Awe inspiring presenter and master storyteller. I laughed, I cried and I celebrated Tim's stories!!!'
- RTLB Central West Auckland Team, 2022
Talks
For over two decades, award-winning author and renowned speaker, Tim Tipene, has been inspiring and entertaining audiences both young and old.
To have Tim speak at your school or event phone Alana on (+64) 027 321 1112
Watch some of Tim's recent talks
13 August 2026 - Arapohue School part 1
10 August 2026 - Years 11-13, Te kura kaupapa Māori o Taumarunui part 3
6 August 2026 - Years 11-13, Te kura kaupapa Māori o Taumarunui part 2
Most viewed
Boy wanted to marry his teacher
Called my teacher a Battleship
Parenting is Funny
'Now he, (Tim), has written a memoir, White Moko, subtitled Stories from my Life, which gives some of the personal background to common themes running through his work: dealing with violence and abuse, and fighting to achieve goals, such as gaining self-respect and a sense of purpose in life.
All of this is a remarkable achievement. It becomes amazing when measured against his early life, described in White Moko. The very fact that Tim Tipene is alive today is amazing. Every event in his young life seemed to destine him for drugs, despair and suicide.'
- Trevor Agnew, Magpies Magazine NZ.
'Tipene's stories of how he found jewels of wisdom and love in a world that had no place for him are heart breaking.
Adults will need tissues.
This is a book that every teacher should read too. While we all hope we never have to teach a child with an upbringing like the one Tipene had, we also all hope we will be remembered as a Mrs Battleship too.'
- Rebekah Fraser, NZ Booklovers
© 2025