We are a whānau-owned business helping Aotearoa learn, connect, and share stories through books, workshops, and Treaty resources. Founded by human rights lawyer Roimata Smail, with the support of her whānau, Wai Ako began as a way to make understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi simple and accessible.

Since then, our kaupapa has grown to include:

• Bestselling books on Te Tiriti o Waitangi /The Treaty of Waitangi, and refugees
  
• Workshops for schools, workplaces, and communities
  
• waiako.com platform for primary school teachers, full of fun, engaging reo Māori music videos
  
• Supporting for new authors to publish their own stories
  

We believe everyone in Aotearoa should have the opportunity to understand our shared history, celebrate te Reo Māori, and feel empowered to tell their own story.

Explore our shop to find our bestselling Treaty book, resources for your whānau, school, or workplace, or contact us to learn more about booking a workshop or publishing your book with Wai Ako.

Our Whānau-Owned Kaupapa

We’re proud to be a whānau Māori owned publisher. Our mahi is rooted in aroha, manaakitanga, and a vision of empowering all of Aotearoa by making information accessible.

Businesses and Communities

From introducing Te Tiriti in an inclusive way, to educating about kiwi refugees, our books and workshops make learning meaningful and inspiring.

Supporting Authors

Have a story to tell? We enable authors to bring their books to life, supporting independent voices.