Taumata Ora: Mātauranga Marae

Kia ora koutou! 

We’re excited to share this special opportunity to deepen your connection with tikanga Māori. This micro-credential is more than just learning about protocols – it’s about understanding the whakapapa and wairua that makes our marae the heart of our communities. 

Whether you’re newly learning about tikanga or want to strengthen your existing knowledge, we welcome you on this journey. There’s a place for everyone here. 

Taumata Ora: Mātauranga Marae v1 

This Level 5, 10-credit micro-credential is designed specifically for our Unitec whānau. 

What You’ll Learn 

Through pūrākau and hands-on marae experience, you’ll develop skills that will serve you well in your mahi and personal journey: 

  • Cultural confidence – Feel comfortable and authentic when participating in Māori cultural settings, whether formal pōwhiri or informal hui.
  • Practical knowledge – Learn the ‘how’ and ‘why’ behind marae protocols so you can engage meaningfully, not just go through the motions.
  • Enhanced relationships – Strengthen your whanaungatanga skills to build genuine connections with whānau, colleagues and communities.
  • Leadership capability – Develop the understanding and confidence to guide others and uphold tikanga Māori values in your workplace.
  • Personal growth – Connect with the deeper meanings behind our customs and discover how they can enrich your own life. 

Key Dates 

  • Starts: 12 August 2025 
  • Finishes: 21 September 2025 (6 weeks) 

Weekly online hui: 

  • Tuesdays: 4:30pm-6:30pm (Teams class where we’ll explore concepts together) 
  • Thursdays: 11:30am-12:30pm (Teams drop-in for questions and kōrero) 

One-Day Wānanga 

  • Friday 12 September: 10am-3pm at Ngākau Māhaki
    (This is where theory meets practice – experiencing tikanga in the place where it truly comes alive)

What you’ll achieve 

By the end of our time together, you’ll be able to: 

  1. Share the stories – Identify and discuss how pūrākau and pakiwaitara connect to our everyday experiences and cultural practices 
  2. Lead with confidence – Demonstrate proper processes and protocols for pōwhiri, pōhiri and whakatau in both formal and informal settings 

Assessment 

This course uses achievement-based assessment. To successfully complete the micro-credential, you’ll need to: 

  • Complete all assessment activities 
  • Achieve all learning outcomes 

Who Can Apply 

  • Open to Unitec kaimahi who are Aotearoa, New Zealand citizens and permanent residents 
  • Limited spaces available 

Express Your Interest 

Keen to join us on this learning journey? Email Veraneeca at vtaiepa@unitec.ac.nz to register your interest. She’ll notify you once the enrolment portal opens. 

Facilitated by Kaihautū/MAIA 

Ngā mihi nui