Nā te kōhanga ahau i tangata ai, from the enrolment of my 3 children (the eldest is 16 now) i have been involved with and now have the privilege of serving in the unique initiative that is Kōhanga reo, i have held a plethora of positions in the kaupapa from a whānau member through to Kaiako Matua, these positions have aided in my successful transition into other roles on boards (land trusts, School Boards, Te Whakakitenga) and also teaching opportunities (Te Reo Māori initiatives, Waiata classes, Rangatahi project’s etc). my parents and also grandparents were involved during the infancy of this kaupapa so my affiliation to the kōhanga movement precedes my involvement. Kōhanga reo has both changed and challenged my view on the world and ignited my passion for our values and customs which has directly influenced my reintegration and involvement with my marae, Iwi and hapū. The skills and qualities i have acquired during my involvement has launched me into a lifestyle that is fulfilling and rewarding personally, professionally and spiritually, nō reira e tūpou ana ahau ki tēnei kaupapa whakahirahira ā tātou i tōna whā ngahurutanga i tōna timatanga, hei pou whirinaki mō tō tātou reo Rangatira, ka mutu ngā taonga tongarerewa e māori ai, e motuhake ai mātou i tēnei Āo hurihuri, me pēnei taku kī, ki te kore he kōhanga reo ka rehurehu tonutia te reo me ngā tikanga e tātou!