Nicola Ratima

Kaitohu
Board Member

Nicola is an educator passionate about Māori culture and physical education, with whakapapa connections to Tauranga Moana, Tūwharetoa, and Raukawa. She specializes in Health and Physical Education and junior Te Reo Māori, currently serving as the Year 11 Dean.

Her journey includes deepening her understanding of Te Ao Māori through programs like Te Rekamauroa ki Tainui, Kura Reo ki Raukawa, and Whare Kōrero o Raukawa (2022–2024). Recognized with the Rising Star Award at the PENZ conference, Nicola has shown leadership in integrating Māori culture with Te Reo Māori, fostering cultural inclusivity within her kura.

Her work in the NCEA pilot program reinforces her commitment to advancing bicultural education. Nicola is dedicated to creating inclusive, culturally enriched learning environments that celebrate and promote Mātauranga Māori in Physical Education.