Kura Pō: A Whānau-Centred Space for Reo Learning
Kura Pō is our Rongowhakaata iwi reo programme, grounded in Rongowhakaatatanga. It is a space for uri to learn reo within the values, narratives, and ways of being that belong to our whenua and iwi.
Tauira consistently describe Kura Pō as a whānau-led, whānau-held learning environment. The online space is experienced as non-judgemental, where everyone is uri first and not defined by reo level.
“Kura Pō has helped me move from whakamā to being proud to say that I’m Māori, and proud to be Rongowhakaata.”
Reo learning at Kura Pō is inseparable from iwi identity. Each class begins with kōrero grounded in Rongowhakaata history, tikanga, waiata and contemporary narratives held by the Iwi Trust. Reo is learned in context, anchored to place, people, and lived experience.
Whānau say this depth of reo and Rongowhakaata-specific content is invaluable. Digital delivery turns distance into connection, with each class shortening the gap back to home.
“My favourite part is the history and kōrero on Rongowhakaata. Learning the kupu we use is something I can’t get from other reo courses.”
Kura Pō offers learning pathways from beginner to advanced, supported by kaiako who create a safe, consistent, and culturally grounded environment. Online delivery enables ngā taura here ki Aotearoa and ngā taura here ki tāwāhi to reconnect with iwi and whānau, wherever they are.
Kura Pō is about more than learning reo. It strengthens Rongowhakaata identity, maintains connection to iwi, and ensures our reo continues to be spoken within an iwi-led, iwi-defined space.
Kura Pō is free and held online via Zoom on Monday nights in six-week blocks, starting at 6:30pm NZST.
To support a strong learning experience, tauira are expected to commit to all six sessions. The next block for 2026 begins Monday 23 February.
“Kura Pō keeps us connected to home — our whole whanau join from Australia. It’s more than learning te reo; it’s learning who we are as Rongowhakaata.”
- Kura Pō 2025 participant
Te Reo Māori Resources
We are developing a range of te reo o Rongowhakaata resources for uri to access and download.
Visit the Ngā Rauemi Reo Māori page here.
