He kōrero nā te Tumuaki

Tēnā koutou katoa e te whānau,

E mātai ake te titiro ki te keokeonga o Moehau, āmiomio kau ana ngā wai
whakaika o Tikapa. Toia mai te tauihu o tōku waka Tainui ki ōku whenua
taurikura, ki taku āhuru mōwai o Te Pai o Hauraki. Haere mai ki Hauraki,
he aute tē awhea.

It is a true honour to step into the role of Tumuaki at Tai Wānanga. I extend a very warm welcome to all our current and prospective taiohi, their whānau, and our wider community.

A Kura of Innovation and Identity

I am deeply excited to be part of a kura that not only champions innovation but also places immense value on our cultural identity, ensuring that Māori succeed as Māori. Having already been part of the Tai Wānanga whānau as a kaitiaki at Ruakura, I have witnessed firsthand the incredible mahi being done by our kaitiaki and the passion and potential of our taiohi. I feel privileged to now lead such a dedicated and inspiring team, understanding the unique culture, values, and vision that make this kura special.

Our purpose at Tai Wānanga is to create an environment where every taiohi is
empowered to thrive both academically and personally, upholding the values
that define us.

My Commitment to You

With over 20 years of experience in teaching and leadership, the majority of which has been dedicated to Māori medium settings—including Kura Kaupapa Māori and Kura ā Iwi—my focus has always been on culturally grounded, reo-rich education. My professional approach is shaped by my personal roles as a māmā, a partner, a coach, and a teacher, all of which are unified by a clear purpose: to uplift and empower others.

Whether in the classroom or beyond, I strive to lead with heart, integrity, and a commitment to the growth of te iwi Māori. My own passions for sports and te reo Māori also instill values of teamwork, identity, and connection in everything I do.

Building Our Future Together

At Tai Wānanga, we believe in fostering strong relationships with whānau.

Your partnership is essential to our taiohi’s success, whether it’s supporting their attendance, tracking their progress, or encouraging their involvement in the many activities outside the classroom. We are committed to providing a broad range of opportunities—inside and outside of the classroo —to help our taiohi discover their passions and fulfil their potential.

I look forward to connecting with each of you—listening, learning, and working together to continue building a kura that truly brings learning to life and gives purpose to our journey through the kaupapa:

Kia tū, kia ora, kia Māori.

Ngā mihi nui,

Keriata Kuiti

Ngāti Tamatera, Ngāti Raukawa te au o te Tonga