Pono Merryman
I study Studio Art and Child Studies and Human Development at Tufts! I am Native Hawaiian born and raised on Big Island, Hawaii who is interested in indigenous knowledge, education, and fiber arts. In my free time I film k-pop dance covers and knit.
Blogs by Pono Merryman
Hikoi Poutini Fall 2026: South Island with IES Abroad
This year, during mid-semester break, IES Abroad New Zealand hosted a joint Auckland and Christchurch trip to Te Tai o Poutini (the West Coast of the South...
Tropics Meets the Tropics: A Hawaiian’s Experience in Rarotonga
Spending time as a tourist in Rarotonga gave me a new perspective to why so many people love to vacation in the tropics. Rarotonga, Cook Islands is one of the...
Celebrating Matariki “Māori New Year”
Studying abroad in Auckland for the fall semester? Great choice! You will arrive in Aotearoa just in time for the Matariki "Māori New Year" season. The opening...
The PERFECT Waiheke Day Trip
The perfect day trip itinerary to Waiheke island! Find a brief history of the island as well as a packing list and 10-hour full-day itinerary. Make sure to...
Lock-In for Study Abroad Prep
A guide to preparing to study abroad in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland. This includes applying for a student visa, keeping your passport up to date, paperwork for the...