Whānau: Reo Māori phrases to share with the people you love by Donovan Te Ahunui Farnham and Rehua Wilson

“Mā te kimi, ka kiteMā te kite, ka mōhioMā te mōhio, ka mārama”

“Seek in order to discover

Discover in order to know

Know in order to become enlightened”

Whānau is a vibrant celebration of family, language and connection. This beautifully produced book combines meaningful expressions with stunning illustrations by Rehua Wilson.More than just a phrasebook, Whānau explores the essence of kinship in te reo Māori, offering insightful reflections and practical language for everyday use. Whether you are just beginning your reo Māori journey or looking to deepen your knowledge, this book is the perfect companion. Its accessible format and encouraging tone make it ideal for sharing with loved ones across generations.

Whānau is thoughtfully organised into four chapters: speaking with your whānau, expressing your feelings with your whānau, encouraging your whānau and, celebrating and supporting your whānau. Within these chapters, there are numerous expressions, including ‘Kāore he painga i a koe (You’re the best)’ ‘Me poho kererū (Be proud), and ‘Whāia te iti kahurangi (Follow your dreams).’

“More than ever I’m being asked, where do I start with learning te reo Māori? The best place to start is wherever your whānau is,” says Donovan.“Whānau is about those closest to you, and this book has been created in the hope that you will share it with those you love most.”

If you enjoyed Aroha by Dr Hinemoa Elder, you’ll treasure Whānau too. It also makes a thoughtful gift, offering a way to share language, culture and connection with those you love.

Donovan Te Ahunui Farnham is a te reo Māori teacher and a leader in Māori-medium education. He is also a licensed interpreter and translator. 

Reviewer: Andrea Molloy

Moa Press