Taylor and Mary Anne are experienced restorative justice practitioners who bring deep understanding of both Māori and mainstream systems. Together they co- lead Real Life, a kaupapa grounded in authenticity, connection, and cultural fluency.

Drawing on years of work in restorative practice, facilitation, and community engagement, they bring a warm, real-world approach to bridging Te Ao Māori and restorative justice.

Join Real Life facilitators Taylor and Mary Anne Tipa for an engaging, hands-on workshop exploring whānaungatanga, the power of genuine connection in restorative practice. Through interactive activities, participants will experience how moving beyond surface-level introductions can build trust, safety, and openness when working with Māori.

Taylor and Mary Anne will weave in lived examples from restorative justice practice, highlighting how language, honesty, and cultural awareness can either close or create space for healing. The session includes opportunities for reflection, anonymous questions, and open kōrero about what really works when engaging with Māori in restorative contexts.

Whether you’re Māori or not, this workshop offers a grounded, real-world look at what it means to connect first — and facilitate second. Come ready to connect, reflect, and learn together.

Kathryn Berkett has a Master of Educational Psychology, is studying for her second Masters of Applied Neuroscience with Kings College, London, and is certified in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.

Since 2009 she has been decoding complex neuroscience for audiences worldwide. Her presentations aren’t just theory – they’re packed with real-world applications for your work and life.

Empowering positive change through accessible brain science: Understanding how the neuroscience and the physiology around the effects of trauma can help us operate in ways that create space for positive behaviour and healing with participants in Restorative Justice.