Te Ara Auaha: Science + Creative Practice

Te Ara Auaha is a one-year pilot programme for Ngātiwai uri aged 16–35, bringing together mātauranga-ā-Ngātiwai with creative and scientific approaches to deliver a grounded, hands-on learning experience.

We are seeking expressions of interest from Ngātiwai uri who are committed to engaging with mātauranga-ā-Ngātiwai through wānanga, creative exploration, and practice-based learning.

Throughout the programme, you’ll build a strong foundation in Ngātiwai knowledge of the rohe moana, while developing the ability to observe, interpret, and respond using both creative and scientific approaches in real-world contexts. You’ll also strengthen your skills in documentation and inquiry, supporting both individual growth and collective learning.

  • Through this programme, tauira will:

    • Build foundational mātauranga-ā-Ngātiwai grounded in whakapapa, tikanga, and rohe moana relationships

    • Develop skills in environmental observation, documentation, and research

    • Engage with kaumātua, oral histories, and iwi knowledge systems

    • Apply creative and scientific approaches to interpret and respond to place

    • Translate knowledge through mapping, storytelling, monitoring, and embodied practice

    • Strengthen understanding and use of te reo ā-iwi

    • Complete a self-directed capstone research project connected to Ngātiwai priorities 

  • Duration: 1 Year (Pilot)

    Structure: 3 Wāhanga (Stages)

    • Wāhanga 1 – Mātauranga-ā-Ngātiwai (Foundations)

      Establish core knowledge through site-based learning, noho marae, wānanga, and engagement with kaumātua. This stage grounds tauira in Ngātiwai histories, tikanga, and environmental relationships.

    • Wāhanga 2 – Practice & Application

      Tauira select a practice stream that integrates creative and scientific approaches, such as:

      • Knowledge Translation & Advocacy — mapping, storytelling, data, and governance

      • Embodied Environmental Practice — harvesting, making, observation, and sustainability

    • Wāhanga 3 – Capstone Research Project 

      Tauira undertake a self-directed project that integrates mātauranga, applied skills, and iwi accountability. Outputs may include creative works, environmental datasets, mapping projects, or applied research contributing to Ngātiwai knowledge. 

  • Learning is experiential, relational, and grounded in doing. This programme includes:

    • Wānanga and noho marae

    • Site-based learning across the rohe moana

    • Fieldwork, environmental observation, and applied practice

    • Engagement with kaumātua and Ngātiwai knowledge holders

    • Studio, lab, and creative practice

    • Reflective journalling and collaborative learning

      Learning is co-led by Ngātiwai knowledge holders and practitioners across science, creative practice, reo, and navigation, ensuring an integrated and grounded experience 

  • This is not mainstream education. This programme:

    • Centres mātauranga-ā-Ngātiwai as a primary knowledge system

    • Treats the rohe moana as a living classroom

    • Integrates creative, scientific, and cultural practice

    • Emphasises embodied, relational learning

    • Produces knowledge that contributes directly to iwi contexts Is accountable to Ngātiwai — not external systems

  • By the end of the programme, tauira will:

    • Demonstrate foundational knowledge of Ngātiwai mātauranga and rohe moana relationships

    • Apply creative and scientific methods within iwi contexts

    • Develop research, documentation, and analytical skills

    • Understand their role in environmental protection and iwi governance

    • Contribute to Ngātiwai-led research, documentation, and practice

    • Build confidence in te reo ā-iwi and its application 

  • This programme is for Ngātiwai uri aged 16–35 who:

    • Want to reconnect with our rohe moana and mātauranga

    • Are interested in creative, environmental, or research pathways

    • Are committed to kaupapa Māori learning environments 

    • Are ready to engage in wānanga, fieldwork, and collective practice

    • Want to contribute to the future of Ngātiwai 

    Please click the “Apply Now” button below to complete the expression of interest form. Expressions of interest open on 4 May 2026 and close on 1 June 2026. All submissions will be reviewed, and applicants will be notified of the outcome by 15 June 2026.

    • Participation in Te Reo Ngātiwai (Kura Reo) is required

    • Commitment to at least 80% attendance and engagement

    • Willingness to engage with tikanga, research ethics, and collective responsibility 

Apply Now