Anaru Bidois says his family are on a journey of higher learning after he, his wife and daughter graduated from Te Wananga o Aotearoa.
The trio were among more than 200 students who were joined by family and friends to celebrate their graduation from Te Wananga at the Taiwere Campus on
Malfroy Rd in Rotorua.
Mr Bidois and his daughter, Deana Bidois, each graduated with a Diploma in Te Pinakitanga, an advanced understanding of language and customs as it relates to te reo Maori. His wife, Wharetutu Paora, graduated with a Certificate in Tikanga Marae, which teaches marae customs and practices.
The father of six said he was proud of what his family had achieved.
"The pursuit of higher education is the pathway to freedom - it's about a journey," he said.
Being able to pursue that education alongside his daughter and wife made it even more special for Mr Bidois.
"There are not too many places where a father can sit beside his daughter and be educated while his wife is next door learning as well. This is truly a great day for my family."
Ms Bidois, who is a teacher at Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Hurungaterangi, said her family chose to study at the wananga because it was supportive and whanau-orientated.
"We all decided we wanted to advance ourselves and this was the perfect way to do it - with the support of our family."
Ms Bidois said the three had had to juggle family, study and work commitments to complete their respective one-year courses.
Mrs Paora said she was ecstatic to be graduating alongside her family.
"My husband and I have always encouraged our children to get a higher education. To be here with my daughter and husband is a special day."
Wananga regional manager Neville King said in a speech to the graduates that the wananga was also celebrating its 25th anniversary. He said the wananga was one of the youngest and largest learning organisations in the country.
Mr Bidois said he was determined to continue his learning with his daughter. The pair are considering taking up a masters in te reo Maori.
