The first step to enabling Maori achievement is engaging whanau (family) and tamariki (children) in situations where their mana (autonomy) and tuakiri (identity) remains intact. This paper identifies steps for culturally critical and sustaining practice when engaging whanau and students, highlights some positive examples, and reflects on lessons learnt. This is phase one of a multi-layered project, Nga Manu--Manu Tukutuku: Empowering Learners to Soar.