Carmen Tione Rupe

Carmen Rupe (1936–2011, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Heke-a-Wai) was a trailblazer in an era when homosexuality and sex work were criminalised in Aotearoa New Zealand.

She lived openly as a takatāpui, transgender woman long before such visibility was safe or socially acceptable. Through sheer charisma, resilience, and determination, she forced a conservative society to confront its prejudices - often by placing herself squarely in the public eye.

Born in Waimiha (near Taumarunui), Carmen spent her early adult years moving between Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Pōneke Wellington and other centres including Otepoti Dunedin, before relocating to Sydney in her twenties. 

In 1966, she returned to Pōneke Wellington and established a series of venues that blended entertainment, hospitality, and sanctuary. Carmen was so widely known in the city, like a true icon, she needed no surname - everyone knew exactly who “Carmen” was.

Carmen’s importance extended well beyond nightlife. She endured police harassment, arrest, and imprisonment, yet refused to be silenced. Instead, she responded with wit, dignity and public defiance. In 1977, she ran for Mayor of Wellington, using the campaign to advance progressive ideas about sexual freedom, bodily autonomy, and social reform decades ahead of mainstream politics.

Today, Carmen is remembered not only for her glamour and humour, but for her profound courage. She carved out space for others simply by insisting on her right to exist, to be seen, and to belong.