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Korero Tupuna
Korero Tupuna classes
reclaiming our reo tupuna
Next intake October 2026
1. Fill out the form below to apply for our October 2026 intake
2. From there our admin team will go through applications
3. You will be emailed if you are a successful applicant
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About our Teacher
Mama Teremoana Maua-Hodges (Atiu/Rarotonga) has been teaching Cook Island Māori for over 20 years. Her extensive educational career has included her role as Principal of Teachers Training College in Rarotonga and completion of a masters degree in Cook Island language
studies. She was awarded the Kings Service Medal in 2024 for services to Community and Sport.
TESTIMonials
I recently took part in an on- line Reo Tupuna class with Māmā Teremoana and her daughter Ngamira. From start to finish we were lovingly guided through the basics of Te Reo Tupuna - Te Reo Māori.
We learnt about the importance of Tūranga or identity and by the end of the course were able to introduce ourselves, our family relationships and how to have basic conversations in Te Reo.
Everything was pre-planned and organised - with an on-line chat group set up for questions, feedback and support in between classes.
I would like to thank Māmā Teremoana and Ngamira for their commitment and professionalism - at no time were we judged or made to feel 'akamā for our mistakes - I now have friends in Rarotonga and Niue that I may even get to meet in person one day!!
Kia manuia
Meitaki mā'ata Māmā Teremoana kōrua ko Ngamira
Helen
Taking part in the beginners Cook Island te reo Māori class was an incredibly enriching and enjoyable experience. From the very start, Mama Teremoana and Ngamira made us feel completely at ease. Their warm, friendly, and patient approach created an inviting atmosphere that encouraged us to step outside of our comfort zones and embrace the process of learning and speaking the reo.
One of the standout aspects of the class was how comfortable they made us feel as learners. Whether we were stumbling over pronunciation or piecing together sentences, their encouragement and understanding gave us the confidence to try without fear of making mistakes. The breakout rooms were another highlight of the class. It was such a pleasure to meet and connect with others on the same journey, and these smaller groups gave us the chance to practice speaking with each other in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Special mention must go to Mama Teremoana for her invaluable guidance in preparing us for our "Tōku Tūranga" kōrero delivery. Her expertise, patience, and heartfelt support gave us the tools and confidence to present our kōrero with pride. Her passion for sharing the Cook Island reo and culture truly shone through and inspired us all.
Overall, the class was both enjoyable and wonderfully structured. The ease and comfortability created by the kaiako, organiser, and Mama Teremoana made it an unforgettable experience. I left not only with new knowledge but also with a deeper appreciation for the Cook Island language and culture. I would highly recommend this class to anyone interested in learning te reo Māori, no matter their level of experience.
Meitaki ma'ata!
Nā, Tia.
"Moupiri tikai tā'au i rauka auraka tō'ou korona. Kia riro tēta'i ke"
Hold on to the knowledge and wisdom of your ancestors and never give them up to anyone.
This course is catered towards beginners so we will focus in on pronunciation and basic conversation eg greetings. A big part of the Course is everyone building their own Turanga.
Mama Teremoana is passionate about the individuality of each island, and this is reflected in her classes.