Someone is trying to ring Nana, and no matter where she goes or how high she climbs, she can’t get a proper cell phone signal. But the person who has been trying to call turns up in her driveway. It’s a sleek black SUV and there are men in suits checking the all clear before the person in the back seat gets out. It’s the Prime Minister of New Zealand!

Pipi and Pou didn’t know Nana knew Prime Minister Reihana and they stand in awe. She has a problem and thinks Nana might be able to help. Little does she know that Pipi and Pou are Nana’s fellow Kaitiaki (Guardians and Protectors of the Natural World).

There is something wrong with Aotearoa’s Kauri trees and when scientists went to check on a particularly special and mighty Kauri, they fled in horror from a terrifying creature. Taking the PM’s story in their stride, Nana, Pipi and Pou set off to see if they can help.

It’s a long way and when they find the Kauri – Tikokekoke, something finds them. This time they have their work cut out for them and even Nana is frightened. The cousins must step up in their super-power forms of giant Tuatara and Pouākai to protect themselves. Pou remembers his rugby training and narrowly avoids being a monster’s dinner.

With some skills and patience, they learn what has made this creature hiding under Tikokekoke so angry. Four-legged creatures are ruining the forest and it’s getting worse. The Kaitiaki trio know they must find out what the four-legged are and promise they will help.

This is the most dangerous adventure ever for Nana, Pipi and Pou. They are up against a huge critter with a legion of legs, snapping jaws and venomous claws – in the dark!

It all begins with a surprise visitor – The Prime Minister of NZ was not expected (by me either) but her request for help unwittingly lands them in front of this creature.

I particularly enjoyed Pou in this episode with his crush on the PM, his quick thinking and rugby skills and his NZ slang. The environmental theme continues in this book – No. 4 in the series.

The end of the book holds a glossary of Te Reo Māori which is used throughout the book in clear context within the story. Repetition of Te Reo words through the series will help young readers understand and retain them, adding to the engaging and entertaining experience of this brilliant series for kiwi kids.

Author – Tim Tipene

Illustrator – Isobel Te Aho-White

Age – 6+

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(2023, OneTree House, Series, Te Reo Māori, Monster, Environment, Pests, Introduced animals, Forest, Kauri, Prime Minister, Humour, Funny, NZ, New Zealand, Aotearoa, Action, Danger, Rugby skills, Centipede, Superheroes, Shapeshifters, Kaitiaki)