Many of our toi kaiako are former tauira. After graduating, they realise that they want to share their knowledge and help others discover their own talents.

In the first of our tauira-to-kaiako series, Heretaunga toi kaiako Desiree Moat-Rangikataua, shares the joy she feels in being a kaitiaki for her tauira.

You were a tauira with Te Wānanga o Aotearoa before you became a kaiako. Why did you choose to study with us?

I was drawn to Te Wānanga o Aotearoa because, at the time, it was the only place I knew of where I could learn to weave, but I ended up finding so much more than just raranga. I was welcomed into te ao Māori, and without even realising it, I began a journey of reconnection to my culture, my tīpuna, and to myself.

That first step into the wharenui changed everything and started a journey that shaped me, healed parts of me, and continues to guide me. I look back now and honestly wouldn’t change a thing.

What led you to become a kaiako? Was there a pivotal moment that made you want to shift from learning to teaching?

I never saw myself teaching. I used to say, “I’ll never be a kaiako.” Āe, tino kē! But sometimes our tīpuna have other plans for us.

After 2 years of studying raranga, I stepped into the reo Māori classroom. However, while I was learning te reo, I kept feeling this pull back towards raranga.

The timing was divine. I wasn’t happy in my job. I was searching for something more fulfilling and then I got a call inviting me to apply for a kaiako role. I questioned myself as I didn’t think I was good enough. But my whānau and hoa tautoko believed in me so I took the leap – and I’m so glad I did.

How has your experience as a former tauira influenced the way you teach your tauira today?

Being a former tauira is my superpower. I know what it’s like to walk into class not knowing what to expect. I know what it’s like to doubt yourself, to juggle whānau, mahi, and study. Because I’ve been there, I teach from that place, with compassion, structure, and realness.

I teach the way I was taught by my kaiako: with patience, manaaki, and high expectations wrapped in aroha. As I learn more, I’m weaving in my own style that reflects my journey and my values. I’m also studying He Pūawai because I want my tauira to get the absolute best of me. They deserve nothing less.

What has surprised you most about being a kaiako compared to being a tauira?

Realising I’ve stepped into the kaitiaki role. It’s not just about passing on knowledge, it’s about holding space, uplifting others, and carrying the kaupapa with integrity.

As a tauira, you focus on your own growth. As a kaiako, you carry the responsibility for the growth of your tauira which hits different.

What advice would you give to tauira who might be considering following in your footsteps — from being a tauira to being a kaiako?

Don’t be afraid to grow. Growth often looks like discomfort – like stepping into spaces you never thought you’d belong in. But e te tau, that’s where the magic is.

Say yes to the opportunities that scare you. Surround yourself with people who lift you. And remember when you teach, you’re not just passing on knowledge, you’re carrying on the dreams of our tīpuna. There’s so much beauty in that.

Trust your path, even if you can’t see the full picture yet. The journey has already begun, and you’re more ready than you think.

Find out more about career opportunities at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.