Dr Ruakere Hond
PhD (Massey), MMS (Awanuiarangi)
Taranaki, Ngāti Ruanui, Whānua ā-Apanui
Dr Ruakere Hond is prominent in reo revitalisation initiatives with a particular focus on projects in Taranaki.
After completing a Bachelor of Science at Waikato University, he shifted to teaching and has spent the last 30 years in Māori language acquisition through immersion with an emphasis on community learning and using Te Ataarangi – The Silent Way approach.
His doctoral research explored Māori language revitalisation as a key element of Māori health promotion. Ruakere is a current Waitangi Tribunal member and has held governance roles in Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori – the Māori Language Commission and Te Mātāwai, the national community Māori language board.