Understanding mātauranga Māori for the English curriculum
This wānanga is a unique opportunity to bring English subject specialists together for a 2-day immersive wānanga to understand and authentically implement mātauranga Māori into your curriculum design.
This is in preparation for the for the “Mana ōrite mō te mātauranga Māori” as part of the NCEA upcoming change package for 2022.
Mō mātou
About us
Kei hea taku manapou, taku manatawa?
"Where are the seeds of my language?"
This whakataukī speaks of the origin of te reo Māori that was brought to Aotearoa within two seeds, Te Mawapou and Te Manawatawa. In the beak of the kākā bird, they were dispersed throughout the land to grow and to flourish into the treasured reo of our people. Our vision is to unite our nation through the power of language. We aim to spread te reo Māori not merely widely but deeply, infusing it with its true essence, history, and spirit.
Our goal is to ensure it reaches every corner of our country, touching everyone with its beauty and depth.
Our approach focuses on authenticity and inspiration because we believe language is more than just words and syntax—it's a bridge to culture, history, and shared identity.
We are committed to making te reo Māori not only heard but felt, understood, and embraced, knitting together our nation's identity in a rich tapestry of linguistic heritage.
Whakapono
Empowering potential
Reflects our commitment to honouring and celebrating the unique identity and culture of Māori.
This value drives us to educate in ways that uplift, respect, and connect people to the richness of Māori culture.
Tuakiritanga
Celebrating Identity
Reflects our deep commitment to honouring and celebrating the unique identity and culture of Māori.
This value drives us to educate in ways that uplift, respect, and connect people to the richness of Māori culture.
Manaakitanga
Caring for Mātauranga
Our pledge to safeguard and respectfully nurture all forms of our language and Mātauranga.
Our stewardship protects the legacy of Mātauranga Māori, enabling its meaningful application in communities and organisations for generations to come.
Rangatiratanga
Empowering knowledge
Rangatiratanga embodies our mission to empower individuals and communities through cultural knowledge and self-determination.
We are dedicated to fostering leadership that strengthens both people and places.
Ngā Uara
Our Values
Ko mātou tēnei
Our People
Genae Thompson
Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Tūwharetoa
Pou Whakahaere - Managing Director
Genae is the Managing Director and Principal Consultant at Poutawa, where she has made significant contributions to te reo Māori education. She has a long history in this field, holding various important positions and excelling as an educator throughout the North Island of New Zealand. Genae is known for creating innovative educational resources and programmes, and she works closely with local communities and families to support strategic development and planning.
Additionally, Genae plays a key role in shaping national education policies through her work with the Ministry of Education. She is a member of the NCEA Te Reo Māori Subject Expert Group and contributes to the NCEA Change Package and Review Panel. Genae is also deeply committed to her own learning and is currently studying advanced Te Reo Māori and completing her research based thesis which looks at adult learners' journey to the reclamation of their heritage language and associated trauma.
Tahau Thompson
Ngāti Hauā, Ngāti Paoa
Pou Tokomanawa - Managing Director
Tahau is the Lead Consultant and a prominent facilitator at Poutawa Reo, known for his expertise in te reo Māori education. He is a skilled Te Reo Māori teacher, a renowned kapa haka performer, and an accomplished composer. His work focuses on enhancing and promoting Māori knowledge and culture. He plays a key role in various curriculum advisory groups, influencing education at all levels from early childhood to advanced secondary education, integrating both Māori and English-medium approaches.
Tahau is also active in the digital sphere, leading online te reo Māori classes. He shares his knowledge as a lecturer in Te Reo Māori at the University of Waikato. Known for his linguistic skills, Tahau is a distinguished graduate of Te Panekiretanga o te reo. He is recognized for his commitment, excellence, and deep passion for Māori culture and language.
Helen Parker
Tūhourangi, Tapuika, Te Rarawa, Tūhoe me Tūwharetoa ki Kawerau
Pou Whirinaki - Resource Developer and Facilitator
Helen is a dedicated educator and Māmā who is deeply passionate about te reo Māori. With extensive experience in teaching and curriculum development, Helen has held significant roles in educational institutions and community organisations.
Her academic achievements include Te Tohu Paerua o Te Reo Kairangi and a Master’s Degree in Māori Education, alongside recognition as a recipient of prestigious Māori education scholarships.
She has developed advanced proficiency in the language and attributes her success to the many mentors, colleagues, and communities who have inspired her along the way. She strives to honour this legacy by ensuring intergenerational transmission of te reo Māori, fostering cultural integrity, supporting students, and empowering communities through education.
Maysie Palmer
Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Pikiao, Te Arawa, Ngāti Awa
Pou Ruruku - Administrator
Maysie Palmer is an experienced professional with a strong background in administration, case management, and stakeholder engagement. With over 15 years in high-pressure roles, including her tenure with the New Zealand Police, she has developed exceptional organisational, analytical, and communication skills. Maysie has successfully managed complex cases, overseen critical processes, and worked in legal and compliance-driven environments.
Her expertise extends to community engagement, where she has collaborated with diverse groups, including service providers and government agencies, to deliver impactful outcomes. Proficient in technology and adept at adapting to dynamic situations, Maysie thrives in challenging environments, demonstrating resilience and emotional intelligence.
Maysie’s dedication to excellence and her ability to foster positive relationships make her a valuable asset to any organisation. She is committed to delivering results with integrity and professionalism.