Hanalei Reponty
Meet our latest crush, Hanalei Reponty: Island girl, surfer, swimwear designer, model and other half of professional surfer, Patrick Gud. The Tahitian-born belle divides her time between the Californian coast and Sydney sun, showcasing her travels and mermaid-like looks on her Instagram. Shot around Laguna Beach, CA, we hung out with the striking beauty in order to get to know her better.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up on the tiny island of Tahiti. It was like growing up in paradise. When I look back and think of my childhood, I am in awe. It gives me such a happy feeling in my heart to think of where I am from. Growing up there, I learnt that respect was one of the most important values; respect for yourself, respect for the land and for others. One of the things I love most about Tahiti is the people’s spirit. They are kind, smiling and so generous and they live a simple life close to the ocean. That feeling of happiness in simplicity goes everywhere around the world with me.
I still hold it very close to my heart – once an island girl always an island girl.
That explains why you spend most of your time in and around the water.
Yes, I learned how to swim before I could walk! The beach was my playground, and everything tasted like sand, salt and sunscreen.
You live between California and Sydney. Which city do you feel the most affinity with and why?
I love cities but I feel myself most at the beach… which is why Sydney is so special to me. You are surrounded by nature, by the ocean and you can travel to different places by ferry. It is small enough to not feel overwhelmed, yet big enough so you can breathe. It is my favourite city in the world.
Can you explain the style and inspiration behind your wetsuit & swim label, Abysse?
Since a very young age, I had always wanted to create something that I believed strongly in, which aligned with my core values of both aesthetic and functionality, as well as being environmentally conscious. After I graduated from Sydney University with a Bachelor of Commerce, I decided that I was ready to create my own company with a strong DNA. My mother and I created Abysse in order to change the landscape of wetsuit companies, with the idea of bringing fashion and function into one being. Our goal was to accommodate the demand for a sports garment that will be able to remain durable during active lifestyles using the highest quality materials.
Who or what are you inspired by right now?
I wish you could see in my mind. So much! Most of all I am inspired by strong women. I am in awe of marine biologist & author, Sylvia Earle for all her work and dedication to the ocean and the planet. There are so many strong women out there, from all ages and all religions, and different backgrounds who contribute in their own way: Malala Yousafzai, Emma Watson, Rosa Parks, Gertrude Bell. I am inspired by Mother Nature, the fauna, flora, and it’s capacity to create such beauty. I am inspired by art, from Matisse to Basquiat. I am inspired by the world!
What are some qualities you value most in a relationship?
Trust, love, kindness, happiness, respect, positivity and just a good old laugh. Having the ability to put your other half’s needs before yours. Growing equally, yet experiencing your own journey with your partner by your side.
Your fiancé is on the road a lot, what’s your secret to making it work?
We have perfected the art of being apart over the years. I am so proud and happy for him when he leaves for a contest because I know he is chasing his dreams and I know he feels the same when I leave last minute for a job. We talk a lot while on the road on facetime which is amazing and if the connection is tough, he always sends me love notes, poems or little songs. We have come to enjoy the time apart, as we know it is going to be even better when we see each other again. And sometimes, I just make him take me with him!
As a woman of many talents, what are some interests or talents that not many people know about?
I am quite the nerd. I love reading books of any sorts. I am a little bit obsessed with History and everything that surrounds Mythology: The Roman Empire or The Quest of The Americas. I studied Latin and Greek in High School and I found it so inspiring. I am also quite the tomboy: I practised Karate for 13 years and am a black belt, so I love any sort of martial arts!
Photography Trevor King
Fashion Editor Jesse Arifien
Beauty Nicola Hamilton
