Nearly 100 Master of Accounting Professional ākonga (students) from the School of Applied Business have taken part in a series of cultural workshops at Te Noho Kotahitanga Marae, aimed at strengthening their understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand’s cultural and legal foundations.
Delivered by the Māia team and supported by Applied Business Lecturer, Madree Peramunugama, the workshops explored Māori perspectives across pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial periods, alongside Te Tiriti o Waitangi, Māori values, and the roles of iwi, hapū, and mana whenua.
Kaihautū Rikona Andrews led sessions through kōrero and storytelling, while Senior Lecturer and Learning Advisor Diane Tamati reinforced Treaty principles and their application in modern law, policy, and institutional practice.
Ms Tamati says the hui created a strong learning environment for students to engage deeply with the material.
“It created a strong learning space to engage deeply with the kōrero and strengthen understanding of the cultural and Treaty foundations of Aotearoa,” Diane says.
She also highlighted the significance of hosting the workshops on the marae, particularly for international students.
“It was very special to welcome Applied Business students into the whare at Te Noho Kotahitanga. Many of them are international students who are still adjusting to life in New Zealand.”
The initiative marks the third semester of collaboration between Māia and the School of Applied Business, with classes this term held in the wharenui, Ngākau Māhaki, to provide a more immersive experience.
Peramunugama said the workshops play a key role in supporting international students.
“Most of our postgraduate students are international, so it is particularly important to provide meaningful learning opportunities that help them understand the cultural and legal foundations of the country in which they are studying and may go on to work,” she explains.
As part of the course, students examine Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its influence on the New Zealand business environment, a topic directly linked to their first assessment.
Peramunugama said student feedback has been consistently positive.
“I’ve received encouraging feedback, particularly about how learning more about Māori culture and values helps students develop greater respect and understanding for the diverse cultures in Aotearoa,” she remarked.
Ms Tamati also acknowledged the impact of the delivery.
“Rikona’s storytelling holds the room, with students listening intently and engaging throughout. It is powerful and meaningful,” Diane says of Mr Andrews’ facilitation.
Peramunugama added that the Māia team’s approach has significantly enhanced student engagement.
“The engaging and interactive style of teaching has made a significant impact on students’ learning. Their collaboration reflects the spirit of mahi kotahitanga (cooperation and greatly enriches the student experience.”