Rere Atu Ki Poronihia / Flight to Polynesia

This beautifully crafted, bilingual picture book is more than just a story. 'Rere Atu Ki Poronihia' delivers an important message about cultural and personal discovery. Written in both Te Reo Māori and English, it offers learners a seamless way to immerse themselves in Te Reo while also absorbing a powerful message of inclusion.

The narrative follows Rangi on a journey to Hawai’i to perform with his school’s kapa haka group. As Rangi connects with other Pasifika performers, he begins to navigate complex questions of identity and belonging. Crucially, the friends he meets are transgender or gender-fluid, and the story beautifully illustrates how they are embraced and celebrated within their own indigenous communities. This leads Rangi to question his own culture's acceptance of him

The illustrations are a standout, serving as a visual glossary of cultural treasures such as the Samoan tuiga and the ipu. Beyond cultural education, this book serves as a gentle, affirming guide for young children on what it means to be "different", teaching them that identity is something to be honoured, not just accepted.