We are thrilled to celebrate a major achievement for Hineraukatauri me Te Ara Pūorohineraukatauri-me-te ara-puoro by Elizabeth Gray, which has recently been recognised at the 2025 New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults. This beautifully crafted book, written in te reo Māori, has captured the hearts of young readers and judges alike.
A Celebration of Te Reo Māori Literature
In a year that saw Māori titles dominate the awards, Hineraukatauri me Te Ara Pūoro was a standout, winning the Wright Family Foundation Te Kura Pounamu Award for a Book Originally Written in Te Reo Māori. The judges praised the book for its “rhythm and poetry of the reo” and recognised its exceptional contribution to Aotearoa’s literary landscape.
This award celebrates excellence in books written originally in te reo Māori and recognises works that bring language, culture, and storytelling to life for young readers.
Read more on RNZ | Full winners list – NZ Book Awards | Stuff article
The Story Behind the Book
Hineraukatauri me Te Ara Pūoro follows the journey of Hineraukatauri, weaving together mythology, music, and adventure in a way that immerses readers in te ao Māori. The book encourages engagement with the language, storytelling, and cultural values, and has been widely embraced by whānau, schools, and libraries across Aotearoa.
A Moment to Celebrate
This recognition highlights the growing strength and vibrancy of te reo Māori literature for young audiences. Elizabeth Gray’s work continues to inspire and engage, and this award is a testament to the impact and importance of telling stories in te reo.
Haumanu Collective congratulates Elizabeth Gray on this well-deserved honour and encourages all readers to explore Hineraukatauri me Te Ara Pūoro this Matariki. It’s a story to be shared, celebrated, and cherished by whānau and young readers alike.
English 
Māori