24WHA21
Whakaaweawe Whakaaweawe - featured impact
The University of Auckland
Pae Tawhiti Rautaki Whakaaweawe
Pātai Mauri
Project commenced:The researchers on this project led the development of an iwi-based series of structured literacy pukapuka grounded in the kōrero tuku iho of Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki. Designed for tamariki aged 4–8, the pukapuka series supports early reading and writing development in te reo Māori while strengthening identity, belonging, and connection to iwi. Bringing together mātauranga Māori and evidence-based literacy approaches, the resources address a significant gap in Māori-medium education. Freely accessible digital versions of the pukapuka and printed copies gifted to kura and kōhanga reo ensure the kaupapa is widely available to whānau, kaiako and communities.
The work supports the intergenerational transmission of knowledge, strengthens equitable access to literacy resources, and models how iwi-led innovation can improve outcomes for tamariki Māori, including those who are neurodiverse.
Project Lead
Dr Karen Brewer, Whakatōhea, Ngaiterangi, University of Auckland
“The Whakaaweawe funding enabled the project to move beyond theory and into tangible outcomes by publishing functional resources in te reo Māori and returning our iwi narratives to our tamariki in a final product.”
