Andre Taikato

House: Herewini whare

Years attended Tīpene: 1998 – 1999

Andre Taikato is a qualified teacher of Te Reo/Tikanga Māori (Secondary School), with 20+ years’ experience within the New Zealand Defence Force. He has a background in education, leadership, sporting, and Te Ao Māori.

Andre attended TIPENE (Herewini whare) in 1998 and 1999 under the tutelage of both Te Ururoa Flavell and Ngareta Timutimu.

It has been rewarding to both see and be a part of re-opening our kura.

“Having two years of my senior high school at TIPENE offered an opportunity to be steeped in rich culture and tradition of Māori boarding school life. Being a current educator allows me to value education and aid in raising Māori and Pasifika achievement standards. TIPENE enabled many young Māori males to build a solid foundation for life and learn tools for success so that we could navigate the world with confidence and purpose. Poipoia te kākano, kia puāwai.”