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Deaf Youth Hui

Ko Taku Reo Deaf Youth Hui Enable Deaf and hard of hearing students become confident leaders of their own lives

Our Program

Our program offers our national Ko Taku Reo students an opportunity to come together at our Auckland and Christchurch campus for five days of learning, culture, challenges and fun.

The Hui encourages independence by enabling each student to complete their journey through self-discovery and resilience. Our aim is to strengthen their sense of identity and build friendships. Further information can be found in our FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Ko Wai Au?: Explaining who I am as a Deaf person

Ko Wai Au? (Who Am I?)

At the beginning of a Deaf person’s journey into Deafhood, there may be a lot of reflections about who they are, exploring the multiple aspects of their identity. The Deaf person may also ask questions about why they are deaf and investigate if there are other deaf members in the family to learn more about their deaf identity and their connections to their languages and cultures.

Term 4 - (Applications closed)
When: 20 - 24 October 2025
Campus: Sumner, Christchurch

Deaf People and Deaf Space: Explaining Leadership and Deaf Space

Deaf People and Deaf Space

From the first step of recognizing themselves as a Deaf person, children can begin to see other Deaf people in the Deaf world who share similar experiences, explore sign language, Deaf culture, and shared history. Students can start to compare the Deaf and hearing worlds. This gives Deaf students more confidence and pride in themselves as Deaf people.

Term 3 - (Applications closed)
When: 1 - 5 September 2025
Campus: Kelston, Auckland

Rights as Deaf People: Access, advocacy and knowing ‘me’

Rights as Deaf People

Once students know who they are and understand the Deaf and hearing worlds, they can learn about their rights, place, and value in the world as Deaf beings. These may be around their access needs and rights to participate in society. This could involve exploring creative solutions to remove barriers so their rights are supported and they can get ahead in life.


Email deafyouthhui@kotakureo.school.nz for expressions of interest for 2025 Deaf Youth Hui.

For further information on Deaf Youth Hui, please contact our coordinators via

deafyouthhui@kotakureo.school.nz

Student FAQs

  • We're so glad you asked! Our Deaf Youth Hui are five days of learning about self-identity, deaf awareness, Deaf history, culture, making connections, and developing skills and resilience. These Hui allow students to interact with their peers, teachers, and Deaf role models during fun activities linked to rich, immersive learning opportunities at the Ko Taku Reo campuses and on day trips.

  • Our Deaf Youth Hui are open to Deaf and hard of hearing students from around New Zealand from Year 7 upwards.

  • We invite 8-10 students to attend each Hui.

  • In most cases your RTD will not be attending with you. However, if your RTD applies to come and can take time away from their other students, they may be able to attend. We encourage students to take this journey independently.

  • Deaf Youth Hui are about developing independence and building resilience with like-minded peers. As much as your parents will miss you, it’s essential to take this journey without them. You will have amazing stories to share when you return home!

  • Absolutely nothing! Ko Taku Reo covers all costs, including transport to the Hui, accommodation and food. You may like to bring a little bit of pocket money.

  • Talk to your parents/caregivers first about which Hui might be best for you. Your RTD could also help you with this. Then join us and embark on an exciting journey towards success and independence! Apply now.

  • At our Ko Taku Reo campuses in Kelston, Auckland and Sumner, Christchurch.

  • Ko Taku Reo will coordinate and pay for your flights to attend if you're not local to either Auckland or Christchurch.

  • We understand! Flying can be a little nerve-wracking, but if you're under 16, we will book your flight as an 'Unaccompanied Minor', which means that the Airport Staff will take extra special care of you. If you're over 16, then you can be booked with 'Airport Assist'.

    Ko Taku Reo staff will be waiting for you at the other end to greet you at the airport and to take you to the Deaf Youth Hui.

  • We will work with your parents and our staff to understand how best to support you while with us. Where at all possible, we will try to cater to any physical needs/food allergies/medical requirements so your time with us is as enjoyable as possible.

  • Yes, of course! We have interpreters available during the day, and our residential team can communicate in NZSL and spoken English.

  • You're welcome to apply to different Hui that may interest you as you progress through your learning and life stages with Ko Taku Reo.

  • Please contact our In-Reach Coordinator – Hayley, at immersion@kotakureo.school.nz or 027 226 1261.

Deaf Youth Hui 2025 Dates

  • Deaf People and Deaf Space: Explaining Leadership and Deaf Space
    When:     1 - 5 September 2025
    Campus    : Sumner, Christchurch

  • Ko Wai Au?: Explaining who I am as a Deaf person

    When: 9 - 13 June 2025 (Applications closed)
    Campus    : Sumner, Christchurch


  • Deaf People and Deaf Space: Explaining Leadership and Deaf Space

    When: 1 - 5 September 2025 (Applications closed)
    Campus: Kelston, Auckland

  • Ko Wai Au?: Explaining who I am as a Deaf person

    When: 20 - 24 October 2025 (Applications closed)
    Campus    : Sumner, Christchurch