My name is Lani Kouka (pronounced like co-ca cola). I’m so happy to be here at Rolleston College, in my role as a “Check and Connect mentor” working alongside Jason.

I’m currently recovering from ankle surgery so for the next little bit, I’ll only be doing a few hours a week to start with.

My roles in the past have included approximately 15 years as a youth worker working at Te Puna Wai o Tuhinapo (youth justice facility), then 5 years at the same place working for MOE as a cooking/art/tutor.

I also owned my own food caravan called “Kai Pod” and did a bit of catering also on the side.

I’m from Taupō (Tuwharetoa) and married to Cambridge (Ngāti Porou).

We have two daughters, Ebony is 34 and Cinnamon is 31. We also have a five year old son, Frosty the French bulldog.

I’m looking forward to getting to know y’all!