Mātauraka Mahaanui
Ko Te Poho o Tamatea, ko Maungataniwha ōku maunga
Ko Rāpaki o Te Rakiwhakaputa, ko Mangamuka ōku marae.
Ko Ngāi Tahu, ko Ngā Puhi ōku iwi
Ko Ron rāua ko Elaine Dell ōku mātua
Ko Janina Konia tōku ingoa.

After completing my post graduate studies in Hōaka Pounamu at the University of Canterbury last year, I am excited to be in this role supporting the communities of learning; schools and early childhood centres in the Christchurch region. Born and raised in Christchurch, I completed my Fine Arts Degree in Dunedin in the 90s before returning home to finish my Diploma of Teaching (secondary).

While still completing my training I was recruited by Trident High School in Whakatāne where I taught visual arts. In the early 2000’s I was the Art Educator, Māori for City Gallery Wellington, transforming exhibitions into culturally relevant learning for students from primary through to tertiary. I bring diverse experience in teaching both domestically and internationally and I look forward to applying my knowledge and skills in supporting the work of Mātauraka Mahaanui.

In particular, I look forward to strengthening my Ngāi Tahutanga and working with whānau in a kaupapa I feel passionate about.

Janina with husband Andre Konia and their children Holly and Eden Konia.

Janina with husband Andre Konia and their children Holly and Eden Konia.

Janina at Māori Graduation 2016 with her parents Ron and Elaine Dell.

Janina at Māori Graduation 2016 with her parents Ron and Elaine Dell.