Our Takiwātanga wānanga is a safe and nurturing space for kaitiaki (guardians)/whānau of tamariki whaitakiwātanga. Guided by kaupapa Māori values, our wānanga is designed to uplift, empower, and support those walking alongside our taonga.
Through whakawhanaungatanga, practical learning, and shared kōrero, we explore takiwātanga from a strengths-based lens — celebrating the beauty, diversity, and potential of our tamariki. Whānau will leave with deeper knowledge, real-world strategies, and renewed confidence to navigate their unique journeys.
Following the wānanga from, we will be offering optional one-on-one sessions with Jess and Tuhoro. Each session will be 15 minutes long, giving whānau the opportunity to discuss takiwātanga-specific kaupapa in a more personal setting.
A sign-up sheet will be available at the wānanga, so please keep an eye out for it on the day if you would like to book a time.
Below are some FAQ’s to assist with learning more about the wānanga, but please feel free to get in touch if your questions are not answered below!
What is the wānanga about?
The Takiwātanga Wānanga is about creating a safe, supportive space for whānau, carers, and parents of tamariki whaitakiwātanga (autistic children) to come together.
It’s a place to learn, connect, and grow — grounded in Te Ao Māori values and a strengths-based view of autism. Through shared kōrero, practical workshops, and whakawhanaungatanga, the wānanga will deepen understanding of takiwātanga, provide tools for everyday life, and celebrate the unique journeys of our tamariki.
What can I gain from participating in the wānanga?
Our hope is that those who attend the wānanga leave feeling empowered. Empowered to continue on your journey, empowered to change the negative stigma that surrounds takiwātanga and disability in general. We wish for whānau to feel assured and acknowledged in expressing their needs and understanding how the community can provide support.
Who is running the wānanga?
The wānanga will be facilitated by Kanorau, a whānau-led kaupapa founded by Jess Hita and Tuhoro Paki. As parents raising their own taonga living with takiwātanga, they are passionate about supporting other whānau and professionals on their journeys.
Who can attend the wānanga?
This wānanga is open to all whānau, carers, and parents who support tamariki whaitakiwātanga (autistic children).
Whether you are at the start of your journey or have been walking alongside your taonga for many years, you are warmly welcomed. Extended whānau, guardians, and those closely involved in the lives of tamariki are also encouraged to attend.
What will happen after the wānanga?
After the wānanga, whānau will leave with practical tools, deeper knowledge, and strengthened connections to help support their tamariki in everyday life.
You’ll have access to ongoing resources, opportunities to stay connected with others, and pathways for further learning and support. Our hope is that you leave feeling uplifted, empowered, and confident in your journey — knowing you are not alone and that there is a village walking beside you.
I have some questions about the wānanga, who can I contact?
If you have any pātai please feel free to contact:
Jess Hita (Kanorau) - 02102331035
Shonee Cooper (Te Puna Kaiwhakahaere- Manager) - 027 555 0299
To ensure the wānanga are tailored to meet the needs of our whānau it is important a lot of thought goes into the pre-planning to ensure we are sharing the right information with you. Register your interest below to attend the Kanorau Takiwātanga whānau wānanga in Rangitīkei.