Helena Stevens
Marae Ora Advisor
Helena is a steadfast kaitiaki of the treasures handed down by our tūpuna, deeply rooted in the teachings of her marae and devoted to the future of her people. Her journey began in the nurturing embrace of Te Kohanga Reo in Manurewa, where the values of whānau, reo, and tikanga were woven into the fabric of her life. Growing alongside the development of her marae, she embraced the privilege and responsibility of protecting and nurturing the taonga entrusted to her people.
For over 31 years, Helena has served at Te Tīmatatanga Kohanga Reo, working tirelessly with whānau and communities across Manurewa and Tāmaki Makaurau. Her mahi centres on ensuring Te Reo Māori me ōna Tikanga thrives within tamariki, homes, and hapori, forging strong connections between people, places, and generations. Her work is a testament to the enduring power of kohanga reo, which remains the heartbeat of her commitment.
Today, through her role with Te Pu-a Ngā Maara, Helena returns to the Pā, where she interweaves the wellbeing of her people, the vitality of their places, and the health of the taiao. In Manurewa, she sees the whenua, waterways, and environment as inseparable from identity. By safeguarding the natural world alongside reo and tikanga, she ensures future generations inherit a vibrant legacy where mātauranga, whenua, and wairua flourish.
Helena’s passion is unwavering: to uplift tamariki, empower whānau, protect the taiao, and carry the treasures of the past into a thriving future. Her life’s work embodies the strength and spirit of her people, ensuring their taonga tuku iho endure for generations to come.