New Zealand
WATCH: Love Island AU's Mimi teaches the Villa the power of a mana wave


Published by Sophie van Soest
07 Nov 2024
Love Island AU is only in its second week, and we've already seen two dumpings, four bombshells, plenty of tears, and a whole lot of pashing – but it’s New Zealand's own Mimi Paranihi who’s stealing the spotlight for Kiwi fans.
Her vibe is unmatched in this year’s crew. She’s laid-back, knows exactly what she wants, and is all in for a good time - especially if it includes a bit of a mana wave.
Mimi took it upon herself to teach her fellow Islanders a little slice of the NZ way.
She started by getting everyone to loosely flick their wrists back and forth as a warm-up for the mana they were about to unleash.
Recruiting the girls, Mimi instructed them to let out a “chee-hoo” as they flicked their wrists out to the sky.
With a not too shabby job, Islander Hannah Steinfield got the job done, which sent Mimi into an ecstatic “ayyyyeeee”.
Vibes were definitely ON!
The clip was reposted on TikTok by a fan, and the comments turned into a mix of opinions.
Many pointed out that the “chee-hoos” weren’t quite right being paired with the wave.
“But us Māoris don’t say ‘chee-hoo’ when we throw a mana wave 🤦🏽♀️,” said one commenter.
Another added: “Chee-hoo was unnecessary.”
But while there were a few trying to bring the vibes down, others had Mimi’s back.
One said: “All these experts on the mana wave like they invented it and put rules on it 🤣🤣🤣.”
“Kinda gives me ‘in the clurb, we all fam’ vibes,” another joked.
A third said: “We love a poly princess repping Māori & Island vibes 💯❤️.”
Mimi is truly an icon of the season already, and we can’t wait to see more of the energy she brings. Here’s hoping she sneaks a cheeky ‘chur’ into one of her many poolside chats!

Published by Sophie van Soest
07 Nov 2024