Our Story

 

 

Deborah and Oka live in Turanganui-a-kiwa/Gisborne with their three beautiful children Aniva, Lagimalie and Manaia. 

Deborah is a New Zealand European primary school teacher and stay at home parent, who grew up in Wairoa in the Hawkes Bay. 

Oka is of Samoan and Tongan heritage and grew up in Petone, Wellington. He is a Physiotherapist with a special interest in Paediatrics.

Following Aniva’s arrival in 2016, knowing how pivotal language is to culture, Deborah began a journey of learning the Samoan language. This journey has led to the creation of these books as learning tools for Deborah and the kids. Deborah and Oka hope that these books will support families like theirs, in celebrating their Pacific languages in the home - wherever home may be.