02/10/2025
🌺 Honouring Luen Hoani 🌺
For over 36 years, Luen Hoani has stood as the Pou Tokomanawa of Te Kohanga Reo o Nga Tikanga Pono a pillar of strength, humility, and unwavering service to Te Ao Māori.
Born Luen Nanette Elizabeth Kay to Lesley and Elvina Kay, her journey into the kaupapa began through faith, whānau, and aroha. Guided by her belief in God and her commitment to the wellbeing of whānau and tangata, Luen embraced Te Reo Māori and Tikanga with open arms not as an observer, but as a devoted student, teacher, and leader.
From fundraising and building the kohanga whare with her own hands, to nurturing over 1500 tamariki into confident speakers of Te Reo. Luen has inspired generations including her own daughter Briar, now Kaiako Matua, and her mokopuna who continue the legacy.
A past kohanga reo student Te Arepa (age 11) shared:
“I’m good at speaking Māori and doing kapa haka because Koka Lu did lots with the kids at kohanga… even when my mum went there.”
As Chairperson of Te Puna Hauora, Luen continues to guide with integrity, calm, and purpose always putting whānau first.
Today, we honour her whakapapa, her faith, and her lifetime of service to our kaupapa.
He wahine toa, he wahine rangatira. He taonga nō tō tātou hapori.
