Our Story

Transformation through Language & Culture

Kauwaka was established to create practical, transformative, and accessible pathways for people wanting to grow in confidence, connection, and understanding through te ao Māori.

Grounded in tikanga Māori and kaupapa values, our work supports language revitalisation, cultural capability, leadership, identity, and community transformation across Aotearoa and internationally.

Ko wai mātau?

Kauwaka means a vessel or medium - reflecting our role in carrying language, culture, knowledge, leadership, and opportunity forward for future generations.

Our work is grounded in the belief that transformation through language and culture creates stronger people, stronger communities, and stronger futures.

As te reo Māori and kaupapa Māori continue to face ongoing challenges nationally, Kauwaka remains committed to growth, innovation, and creating new ways for people to access transformative learning experiences grounded in te ao Māori.

Through workshops, wānanga, delegations, digital learning, and strategic partnerships, we continue working to ensure language and culture remain strong for future generations.

Looking Ahead

Kauwaka continues to expand its programmes, partnerships, and learning platforms to create more accessible and transformative opportunities for individuals, organisations, whānau, and communities across Aotearoa and beyond.

We remain committed to innovation, collaboration, and ensuring te ao Māori continues to thrive for future generations.

Tō Mātau Rōpū | Our Team

Dr. Jeremy Tātere MacLeod

KAIWHAKAHAERE | DIRECTOR
Language revitalisation, tikanga Māori, leadership, and cultural transformation.
Dr. Sir Tīmoti Kāretu

POU AMOKAPUA | PRINCIPAL ADVISOR
One of Aotearoa’s foremost experts in te reo Māori, tikanga, and Māori oratory traditions.
Te Rina MacLeod

KAIWHAKAHAERE | DIRECTOR
Supporting kaupapa Māori through leadership, operations, and strategic development.
Hinewai Netana-Williams

KAIKŌKIRI KAUPAPA | PROJECT MANAGER
Supporting kaupapa Māori through practical leadership and coordination.
Wairangimarie Makea-Karaitiana

KAIKŌKIRI EVERYTHING!
The awesome niece every kaupapa needs.