The aim of this study is to explain and celebrate the positive engagement of Māori tamariki within whānau-oriented learning environments, which focuses on equipping them to contribute to and to engage effectively in the world in which they live. Gaining an insight into the position of each of the primary participants was conducted in a way in which the mana (status) of each participant and their whānau was kept safe through open dialogue and confidentiality. The importance of this is to share knowledge and information for past, present and future mātua, kaiako and whānau, in a safe way particularly for all who have a vested interest in the study. Ideally tamariki began in Kōhanga Reo, then entered and exited kura tuatahi/kaupapa, or transitioned into wharekura. The value of learning through te reo Māori, tikanga (practices), mātauranga Māori for the participants shone through, as did the impacts of this learning on their lives, on their views of themselves, including the right to be themselves and to operate effectively as Māori. Additionally, the challenges faced by whānau whose tamariki began in Kōhanga Reo and moved on to Kura tuatahi/kaupapa, are discussed. Included in this section are discussions about whānau choice in relation to their tamariki moving from Māori medium to English medium educational environments and reasons behind these choices.