About us
Discover the meaning behind the name 'Ruku ki te Ako' and how it reflects our approach to collaboration
Ruku ki te Ako is more than just a name
Ruku ki te Ako means ‘Dive into Learning’—a name that speaks to the courage and curiosity needed to truly grow. Just as a diver plunges beneath the surface to discover hidden treasures, we invite you to immerse yourself in the depth of knowledge and understanding. Rooted in Te Ao Māori values, this journey is about more than learning—it’s about connection, respect, and embracing the richness of culture. When we dive together, we rise stronger.
Te Tumu Whakarae / Founder, Chris Maika, explains, "We wanted a name that embraces the essence of what we do, which is to guide and support our clients in their journey of growth and self-improvement."
Celebrating Our Unique Culture
We're passionate about uplifting Te Ao Māori in Aotearoa, and we're committed to helping businesses grow their cultural confidence.
We do this because we believe in an Aotearoa where diversity, inclusion and belonging are at the forefront of everything that we do. Our collective superpower!
The lifelong hikoi that is learning
We believe that learning and development is a lifelong pursuit and we are here to be a partner in your journey.
That’s why we offer more than just e-learning. Our entire kete of tools is designed to support your kaimahi and organisation in achieving its goals.
Meet our kaimahi
Chris Maika
Te Tumu Whakarae / Founder
Chris is the founder of Ruku ki te Ako, a passionate advocate for lifelong learning and cultural connection. Growing up in a large whānau, Chris learned the value of resilience, teamwork, and curiosity early on. His journey—from diving for penny's in the 'Whaka' river as a child to travelling the world to play rugby, paddling waka ama and leading learning kaupapa—reflects his belief that knowledge is something we dive into wholeheartedly. Through Ruku ki te Ako, Chris combines his love for te ao Māori with a commitment to empowering individuals and organisations to embrace learning as a way of life.
Jade Joseph
Content Creator
Jade is a creative storyteller and content provider at Ruku ki te Ako, passionate about crafting engaging and culturally authentic learning experiences. With a strong foundation in Te Ao Māori and a flair for creative thinking and feeling, Jade brings ideas to life through positivity, aroha, and meaningful narratives. Her goal is to make learning inspiring, and deeply connected to Māori values, ensuring every piece of content resonates with purpose and impact.
Gemma Sides
Learning Designer
Gemma is a Learning Designer at Ruku ki te Ako, dedicated to creating meaningful learning experiences that weave together te ao Māori and contemporary approaches. With a strong background in leadership development and cultural capability, Gemma brings a passion for helping individuals and organisations grow their confidence in te ao Māori. Her work focuses on fostering inclusion, building cultural awareness, and designing learning that makes a real difference. Gemma believes learning is a journey—sometimes challenging, always rewarding—and she is committed to guiding others through it.