Kahu Pūtoi
Connecting Māori-medium educators and te reo Māori teachers nationwide to strengthen practice through collaboration, shared knowledge, and peer support.
The Opportunity
Across Aotearoa, Māori-medium kaiako and teachers of te reo Māori play a critical role in sustaining language, identity, and culturally grounded learning. However, many operate within geographically dispersed and professionally isolated contexts, with limited access to consistent, relevant support.
Our Response
Kahu Pūtoi was launched in 2019 - a nationwide online platform with peer-led forums, live webinars / online symposia, and resources aligned with Māori-medium curriculum requirements. The approach prioritised collaboration, cultural relevance, and accessibility.
A nationwide online kaiako‑led network was established, enabling educators to connect, share ideas and resources, and support each other in real time. The platform encourages shared contribution and collaboration across settings and levels.
The Outcome
Through its online community model, Kahu Pūtoi has created a responsive space where kaiako can contribute, converse, and access peer insights on pedagogical challenges and curriculum topics. While precise quantitative impact data is not publicly available, the network’s existence supports connected professional exchange across Aotearoa.
The Conclusion
Kahu Pūtoi demonstrates how culturally-grounded, community-driven approaches can strengthen teaching practice. By focusing on peer support and resource sharing, we created a sustainable platform that continues to grow and adapt to the needs of Māori-medium kaiako.