Toi Maruata

Start your artistic journey in a supportive learning environment. This introductory programme enhances your knowledge of Māori art.

We'll teach you a broad range of toi (art) techniques and skills through completing practical projects. You'll also learn about te ao Māori (the Māori world) and how this connects to your identity.

With the help of our experienced kaiako, you can use this programme to:

• kick-start your tertiary studies
• develop a portfolio of work for entry into higher level arts programmes
• start a process of personal exploration.

Depending on your location, the following classes may be available:

Toi Ataata (Visual Arts)

Explore a range of visual art forms such as painting and sketching through to graphic design and print making to help you express the way you see the world. Through a variety of media and techniques, alongside personal kaupapa, toi ataata tauira (students) develop their own creative practice.

Mau Rākau (Māori Martial Arts)

Learn ancestral practices, values and protocols of the traditional Māori martial arts. Learn about te ao Māori (the Māori world) and tikanga (protocols) while developing a specialised skill set and preserving the rich culture and art of the warrior.

Whakairo (Carving)

Learn the history and techniques of one of the oldest toi Māori forms. Explore the history and tikanga (protocols) associated with the ancient art form of whakairo and learn the hands-on techniques used to complete practical projects.

Ngā Mahi ā te Whare Pora (Weaving)

Explore raranga with its fascinating history and creative application. You’ll learn about Māori patterns and designs and gain the technical skill needed to weave and work with different types of fibre.

Māori Performing Arts

Learn how to produce and perform at a professional level. Immerse yourself in te ao Māori (the Māori world) and get experience in Māori performing arts in an interactive, social and exciting setting. You’ll learn about everything from kapa haka to theatre and drama.

When you pass this programme, you'll get this qualification:

• New Zealand Certificate in Ngā Toi Level 3

• creative processes relating to toi
• time and project management skills
• self-reflection through journal work
• rangahau (research)
• whakapapa
• history, tikanga and cultural practices relating to Māori art.

This is a full-time programme that consists of 60 credits delivered over 20 weeks. Some of our locations offer different delivery modes. These will be confirmed by your local campus and might include:

Option 1 (noho delivery):

• 5 x noho throughout the programme (25 hours each)
• 18 x kura whakaako - compulsory tutorials (5 hours each) 
• 1 x 1-day wānanga (10 hours)

You'll also need to complete learning activities designed to enhance your learning for:

• approximately 21 hours per week.

Option 2 (face to face delivery):

• kura whakaako - compulsory tutorials (12.5 hours per week)

You'll also need to complete learning activities designed to enhance your learning for:

• approximately 21 hours per week.

To enrol in this programme, a potential student must:

• be at least 16 years of age
• be a New Zealand citizen (or citizen of Australia, Tokelau, Niue, Cook Islands) or permanent resident
• participate in an interview and selection process to demonstrate suitability to the programme.

Download factsheet

Apply to enrol on our Level 4 programme Kāwai Raupapa - Certificate in Māori and Indigenous Art.

You can continue to develop your skills by contributing to your whānau, community, or marae.