Some viewers may not be aware that New Zealand's most high-profile Maori activist is also an artist.

And since Tame Iti's release from prison, he's been painting.

There's a lot to paint about - his tribe Tuhoe have just had the Te Urewera returned in a Treaty of Waitangi settlement.

His exhibition, along with photographer Birgit Krippner, opens in Wellington's Suite Gallery tonight.

Campbell Live reporter Whena Owen caught up with Mr Iti before his exhibition to discuss the meaning behind his paintings.

Watch the video for the full report.