The Tū Rangatira tutor programme provides ākonga Māori with a safe and supportive space to engage with tikanga and Māori concepts every day. It is designed to grow their confidence in cultural experiences and practices, while also encouraging Tangata Tiriti to learn alongside them—becoming bicultural citizens and building strong, respectful relationships with Māori.
Through this programme, students develop skills in the pōwhiri process and learn a wide range of karakia, mihi, and waiata to support them in both formal and informal settings. In doing so, they gain a deeper understanding of the significance of each role and the responsibility of upholding the mana of tikanga within our school and wider community.
Students in the Tū Rangatira programme, along with those in Māori academic pathways such as Te Reo Māori, Te Ao Haka, and Whakairo, take part in a series of wānanga experiences. Each wānanga is designed to:
- Deepen understanding of tikanga
- Reinforce cultural values
- Provide meaningful opportunities for learning and cultural immersion
These experiences take place on marae and in other authentic environments, giving students the chance to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
The wānanga series also provides ākonga of whakapapa Māori with a safe and encouraging space to embrace their culture. Here, both students and whānau can overcome whakamā, learn through experience, and grow in confidence—knowing that mistakes are part of the journey. This nurturing environment fosters resilience, pride, and a strong sense of identity.
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