The treasured and sacred maunga of Tāmaki Makaurau are the focus of this new bilingual children’s book, Ngā Maunga o Tāmaki Makaurau I The Maunga of Tāmaki Makaurau, published by Auckland Council Libraries.
This beautifully illustrated book celebrates the unique landscapes and stories of Tāmaki Makaurau, while strengthening kaitiakitanga (environmental stewardship).
Presented as a flip book in both te reo Māori and English, Ngā Maunga o Tāmaki Makaurau I The Maunga of Tāmaki Makaurau is designed to support language learning and cultural connection across generations. It tells the special story of caring for te taiao, celebrating Māori storytelling traditions and strengthening connection to the iconic maunga that are part of shaping the city’s identity.
Co-written by mana whenua mother-and-daughter duo, Michelle Wilson (Hauraki – Ngāti Pāoa, Ngāti Whanaunga, Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāti Maru) and Tia Saofia (Ngāti Pāoa, Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāti Maru), and translated by Tāne Karamaina, the book combines powerful storytelling with striking illustrations by Saofia. Wilson is a writer, leader and curator whose work champions te taiao, te reo Māori and whakapapa, inspiring young generations to become kaitiaki. And Saofia, a Whitcliffe alumna, is a contemporary digital designer and illustrator who blends modern visual styles with cultural storytelling, creating work that explores identity, hope and spiritual connection.
Community Committee Chair, Councillor Julie Fairey says this new book reflects the important role of libraries in sharing stories that connect communities with place, language and culture.
“Ngā Maunga o Tāmaki Makaurau I The Maunga of Tāmaki Makaurau is a powerful story that encourages readers of all ages to deepen their connection with the whenua and understand their role as kaitiaki and we are delighted to bring this meaningful and accessible resource to our communities.”
Dimensions
125 x 275 mm, Paperback / softback
Author Bio
Michelle Wilson (Hauraki – Ngāti Pāoa, Ngāti Whanaunga, Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāti Maru) is a leader, writer, and curator of toi who is deeply committed to te taiao, te reo Māori, and whakapapa. Her work promotes parakore practices, encouraging people to take action to care for the natural world. She is passionate about empowering young people as kaitiaki and uses storytelling, culture, and iwi development to strengthen connections to the land and inspire a shared responsibility for a better future.
Tia Saofia (Ngāti Pāoa, Ngāti Tamaterā, Ngāti Maru), a Whitecliffe alumna, explores contemporary digital design through an inspired lens that finds beauty and meaning in creation, blending modern visual styles with cultural storytelling. Grounded in her Christian faith, her work reflects themes of hope, identity, and spiritual connection.
