Tama & the Taniwha
About the Book
Tama & the Taniwha began as a story for tamariki and whānau, but somewhere along the way it became a story for me too.
It carries lessons I wish I’d heard when I was younger. About courage, wairua, and facing what’s in front of you even when it’s hard.
The taniwha isn’t only a guardian. It reminds us that bravery and uncertainty often walk together, and both are part of growth.
Every page has a heartbeat. It’s for the tamariki who dream big and the parents who still remember what that felt like.
Each image and word holds a moment of connection between people, place, and memory. It’s about finding magic in the everyday and remembering our stories still have power.
Every story begins somewhere.
For Tama, it begins with a storm, a forest, and a feeling that something is waiting for him.
This is a story about trust and growth, about finding calm in moments of change, and learning to listen to what’s around you and what’s within you.
Tama & the Taniwha is one to read together, to talk about, and to remember when life feels a little bigger than you expected.
Inside the Story
"He squinted through the spray.
At first he saw only mist and shadow.
“Who’s there?” Tama called, his voice small under the roar of the waterfall.
Then he saw them.
Two eyes, glowing steady through the water.
Their gaze was calm.
A shape moved behind the falls,
scales shining like greenstone."
Pre-Order Your Copy
Supporters Edition
$34.50 NZD (inc GST)
Afterpay available
Shipping is calculated at checkout
Pre-orders are now open: Order by Wednesday 27 November 2025 to be part of the first print run.
All pre-orders will be packed and shipped by Tuesday 3 December 2025, in time for Christmas delivery.
Each order includes:
- 1 × Tama & the Taniwha physical book
- Printed and packed in Aotearoa NZ
Order limit: 4 books per order
For bulk or school orders (5 or more books), please email callum@moemoeamedialab.com to arrange combined shipping or wholesale pricing.
Shipping
Aotearoa NZ
Tracked nationwide delivery – flat rate $12 NZD per order
Rural addresses add $5.70 NZD
Delivery 1–3 working days (urban) or 3–6 days (rural)
Australia
Tracked shipping – flat rate $25 NZD per order
Delivery 3–7 working days for major cities or up to 10 days for rural areas
Pre-order below and be part of the first Tama & the Taniwha release.
Collector’s Edition: Signed Upgrade & Digital Pack
$30 Upgrade – Collector’s Edition Add-On
Add this once to upgrade your whole order.
This is an upgrade, not a standalone purchase.
You’ll need to buy the Supporter’s Edition first, then add this upgrade to your order.
When you upgrade each book in your order will be signed by Callum, and your name will appear in the acknowledgements section of the second Tama & the Taniwha book due in March 2026.
You’ll also receive a digital pack that includes:
• 5 high-resolution Tama & the Taniwha digital art files, ready to print for your whare or workspace
• 5 Tama & the Taniwha colouring pages to print and share
Digital packs and signed copies will be sent out together when books ship with tracking.
For bulk or school orders (5 or more books), email callum@moemoeamedialab.com to arrange combined shipping or wholesale pricing.
Gift a Book to a Kura
The story continues in the hands of our tamariki.
$25.00 NZD
No shipping required I'll cover that.
We’re making sure Māori stories reach our kids not just online but in classrooms and libraries across Aotearoa.
The first 100 copies of Tama & the Taniwha are already printed and ready to gift to kura and community spaces.
Together, our goal is to gift 500 copies to tamariki across the motu.
You can join the kaupapa by adding one for a kura or library when you pre-order your copy at checkout.
Every gifted book helps another tamaiti see themselves in our stories.
The journey continues...
Tama & the Taniwha is only the beginning.
This kaupapa is about creating a space for Māori storytelling, art, and imagination to grow.
From books to worlds, and ideas to screens.
Through Moemoeā Press, we’re building a home for stories that reflect our whakapapa, our whenua, and the way we see the world.
Every book helps bring the next one to life. Your support keeps these stories moving and makes it possible to dream bigger for our tamariki and the generations to come.
Watch the video above to see what’s next.
Frequently asked questions
When will my book arrive?
All pre-orders ship in early December, just in time for Christmas. You’ll receive tracking details once your order is on the way.
Can I order from overseas?
We currently ship within Aotearoa and to Australia.
International options will open next year.
Is this book suitable for all ages?
Its written for tamariki aged between 5 - 10 but adults tell us they love it too.
The story carries messages that resonate at any age.
Can schools or libraries order copies?
Yes. Kura, kōhanga, and libraries can order through the site or contact us directly at callum@moemoeamedialab.com for bulk options.
How much is shipping?
Shipping is calculated based on your location and the items in your order. You will always know the shipping price before you purchase.