Our Story
Transformation through Language & Culture
Founded in 2020, Kauwaka® drives language and cultural revitalisation within Ngāti Kahungunu and beyond. We now deliver services across Aotearoa and internationally.
Ko wai mātau?
Kauwaka means a vessel or medium, reflecting our role as a conduit for leadership, employment for skilled graduates, and growth of the Māori economy.
Our passionate team is committed to transformation through language and culture. In response to recent challenges in Te Whanganui a Tara affecting communities across Aotearoa, Kauwaka® is focusing on growth and innovation - developing new programmes, learning platforms, and creative ways to share our expertise.
Looking Ahead
Exciting changes are coming with new and meaningful offerings and collaborations.
Thank you for your continued support and belief in our shared vision. Your trust fuels our determination to move forward, ensuring that our language and culture remain strong for generations to come.
Ō Mātau Uara | Our Values
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Tapatahi
Building trust and honesty by acting with integrity.
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Ngākaunui
An unwavering commitment to our vision and objectives.
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Whakaute
Valuing everyne and treating people wih dignity and professionalism.
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Māori
Unapologetically Māori - in thought, belief and action.
Tō Mātau Rōpū | Our Team
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Dr. Jeremy Tātere MacLeod
KAIWHAKAHAERE | DIRECTOR
Iwi: Ngāti Kahungunu, Rangitāne, Te Arawa, Ngāti Raukawa, Te Ātiawa, Ngāi Tahu, Ngāti Kuia, Ngāti Apa
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Dr. Sir Tīmoti Kāretu
POU AMOKAPUA | PRINCIPAL ADVISOR
Iwi: Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Kahungunu
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Te Rina MacLeod
KAIWHAKAHAERE | DIRECTOR
Iwi: Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Raukawa
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Lee Kershaw-Karaitiana
TUMU WHAKARAE | GENERAL MANAGER
Iwi: Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāti Porou
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John Hutchinson
KAITOHUTOHU PAKIHI | BUSINESS ADVISOR
Iwi: Ngāti Pākehā
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Tammy Te Whaiti
KAIWHAKAHAERE TARI | OFFICE MANAGER
Iwi: Ngāti Kahungunu