Hectorina became a Pouako at Te Rito in 2005, enabling her to pass on the skills and knowledge of whāriki (intricate mats) and weaving, as they were handed on to her.
Hectorina enjoys educating roopū in their own ancestral areas enabling iwi (tribes) to deliver programmes that require her expertise and assistance. These kaupapa (projects) include: Tanatana Marae kapa haka uniforms – Waimana 2007 and Te Wheki Marae tukutuku panels – Rapaki 2010.
Hectorina insists that her mahi (work) at Te Rito is her way of giving back to Te Arawa (local tribe) and the tutors that taught her the legacy of weaving.
