About
Kia Orana,
I’m Aunty Here
Born and raised in Rarotonga, Cook Islander Teherenui Koteka has always had passion for the Arts and Literature. After graduating with her Bachelors of Arts from Te Herenga Waka, Victoria University of Wellington, Teherenui returned to the Cook Islands where she served as a teacher at Titikaveka, Nukutere and Tereora College.
While home in the ipukarea Teherenui realised that there were limited resources to help our children learn Māori in the home. This echoed her own experiences of feeling displaced as a youth who grew up in the Cook Islands yet can not speak the language fluently.
In the spirit of making the Māori language more accessible to her peers and younger tamariki, Aunty Here’s Books was born.
Aunty Here’s books create personalised books that allow our little ones to see themselves in Cook Islands stories. A fun way learn our language, engaging readers as they draw connections between themselves and their Cook Islands heritage.
Frequent Asked Questions
How much does a customised book cost?
Each adventure will vary in price, however our first edition “Te Tua o…” is NZD $30.00
How much of the book is customised?
There are 6 pages that have customisations. These customisations include the selection of 3 characters (the child and two supporting characters) as well as the selection of which islands/ villages of the Cook Islands these characters have roots in.
Do you ship outside of the Cook Islands?
We currently ship within the Cook Islands and New Zealand.
Can I gift a book to someone else?
Yes! You would simply customise the book in their name and their details and we can arrange to have the book sent to them as a gift.
How many books are there?
Currently we have one book available for purchase. Each edition is limited. Once sold out we will release a new adventure.
My home island isn't included. Can you customise it to suit me?
Yes! Send us a message to discuss.
Do you sell gift cards?
We love gifts! However at this point in time we do not sell gift cards but we can customise a book for a friend and send them the book on your behalf.
Can we read more with Aunty Here?
Occasionally Aunty Here heads out into the community to do live readings. I’m sure you will catch her out and about soon.