Connection and Belonging Learning Lunch: An Introduction to Tikanga Māori with Dr. Jeremy Tātere MacLeod

Dr Jeremy MacLeod is the Director of Kauwaka, where he leads a team of dedicated professionals who deliver innovative and tailored Māori cultural and language development programmes and consultancy services. With over 16 years of experience in senior management roles, he has a proven track record of implementing successful strategies and projects that promote the revitalisation of the Māori language and culture.

Jeremy holds a PhD in Māori Language from The University of Waikato and several certifications in oral interpretation and written translation from the Māori Language Commission. He is passionate about preserving and promoting the Māori language and culture, and committed to empowering others to do the same. His goal is to contribute to the preservation and revitalisation of the Māori language and culture for future generations.

Christina is a lifelong learner with a profound passion for exploring diverse cultures and disciplines. Her curiosity has inspired extensive global travel, from teaching English to Buddhist monks in Laos and volunteering at a Thai orphanage to visiting museums across Europe, the UK, and Asia. A highlight of her travels is the Bishop Museum in Hawai'i, which she visits frequently, including during the 2014 World Indigenous Peoples' Conference on Education.

Her academic journey began with law and politics at Waikato University, where she discovered dispute resolution. She subsequently earned a Master’s in Mediation and Conflict Resolution from Strathclyde University, UK. This period included an exchange at the East China University of Political Science and Law in Shanghai and research in Hong Kong on the ombudsman's role.

Currently a Learning Facilitator for Love Heart Social Learning, Christina also teaches the Restorative Practices microcredential at Victoria University. A fully accredited restorative justice facilitator and assessor, she recently delivered mediation training in Micronesia. Previously, she served as Director of Employee Assistance Resolution Services at Victoria University.

Outside of work, Christina enjoys connecting with loved ones and attending international events, such as the 2025 Restorative Practices conference in Singapore, to continually expand her expertise.