Ngāi Tai ki Tua is a rangatahi programme which aims to empower our rangatahi in their iwi identity, supporting them to confidently navigate their journeys in education.

The programme is running from Term 4 2024 to Term 2 2025, with activities each Term flowing out of our pepeha structure, taking the rangatahi from having their waewae planted on their maunga to being equipped to venture out beyond the horizons.

This programme is now closed to new registrations but keep an eye on this page for updates as the programme proceeds.

Assessing the landscape

Following initial meetings with our team in Term 4 last year, rangatahi who joined the programme could attend a wānanga that we held in January 2025, aimed at strengthening iwi identity. The three-day wānanga had a packed agenda which followed the structure of our pepeha.

From day one, the rangatahi were immersed in those things that make us who we are today - our waiata, pūrākau and hītori - before venturing to the summit of their maunga Kohukohunui and out on to the waters of Tīkapa Moana, both of which allowed them to see a number of significant sites along the way, including a view of Umupuia marae from the moana that was new for many whānau.

Grounding our rangatahi in their iwi identity at the start of the year is an important step in this programme, which will be carried forward into the Term 1 and 2 activities set out below.

Clearing the way

• In Term 1 each of the rangatahi will meet back up with our team to reassess their needs and aspirations based on their experiences at the wānanga and how the year has been going for them so far. We'll also run through a goal setting exercise with the rangatahi, equipping them with tools that can help guide them towards independence in their education journey.

• Where there are barriers for the rangatahi that limit participation in school and school activities, our team will provide options around how the programme can assist in removing those barriers, clearing the way for them to navigate their year ahead.

Ko Tīkapa te moana

Beyond the horizon

• In Term 2 the rangatahi will reflect with our team on their year so far, how they are tracking with their goals, and the impact of the identity wānanga and kōrero. We'll make sure the rangatahi are left prepared to chart a course for the rest of the year beyond the programme.

• Near the end of Term 2, the cohort will come together again for a day to share and celebrate in their journeys.