Donna Summers was born and raised in the Far North of New Zealand, growing up on her family’s dairy farm in Motutangi, a small rural community approximately half an hour north of Kaitaia. Although she does not whakapapa Māori, being raised in a predominantly Māori environment fostered a deep cultural connection and sense of belonging within the community.
Of New Zealand European and Filipino heritage, Donna was embraced by the local Māori culture, where values of whānau, community, and shared identity played a significant role in shaping her upbringing. From a young age, she was taught that pounamu is a precious taonga—a sacred gift to be treasured and passed down through generations.
Donna began carving in late 2019, drawing on both her cultural experiences and natural surroundings for inspiration. Her work often reflects the landscapes of her childhood, from long hours spent fossicking along the beaches to exploring the wilderness of the Far North. While she incorporates traditional motifs, her designs are deeply personal, grounded in place and memory.
Between 2008 and 2011, Donna studied at Whitecliffe College of Arts and Design in Auckland, where she completed a four-year Bachelor of Fine Arts. During her studies, she explored a wide range of artistic mediums. In her final year, she was awarded the inaugural Eden Arts Schools Competition, a prestigious event that brought together the top four art schools in Auckland.
