Tirohanga whānui
Explore the power of sound
Step into the world of taonga puoro, the traditional instruments of Māori culture. This programme invites you to explore ancestral sounds, their deep connection to storytelling, and their place within te taiao (the natural world).
You’ll gain hands-on experience in playing and constructing taonga puoro, while also learning the tikanga and appropriate uses for each instrument. Guided by kaupapa Māori, the programme helps you develop knowledge, skills, and respect for these treasured taonga.
More than music, taonga puoro are closely linked to hauora (wellbeing). By studying their rhythms and resonance, you’ll discover how sound supports balance and healing for individuals and communities. This programme is a chance to deepen your cultural understanding while reconnecting with ancestral ways of knowing.
He aha tāu ka whiwhi?
What you'll gain from this programme
You’ll be able to:
Practice playing a variety of taonga puoro
Understand the relationship between taonga puoro, storytelling, wellbeing, and the natural environment
Learn about the tikanga connected to different instruments
Apply learning to modern wellbeing practices
Mā te mahi ka ako
Learn by doing
You will get to:
Play different traditional Māori instruments
Construct your own taonga puoro
Learn about stories and traditions connected to taonga puoro
Start developing your own practice
Ngā ara e wātea ana
Where will this take me?
Keep studying:
Progress your studies in the arts, Māori studies, education, health, or environmental management with one of the following programmes:
At work:
This certificate may support careers in these industries:
Arts sector
Facilitator
Performner
Project management
Production
Art assistant
Education sector
Secondary education
Education or curatorial support in museums
Health sector and rehabilitation support
Community involvement:
Support your community, whānau, hapū, or iwi with:
Health and wellbeing
Reo and tikanga support
Leadership and tiaki taonga
He meka
Quick facts
- Level 4 (Intermediate)
- 60 Credits
- 20 Weeks
- NZ Certificate in Taonga Puoro (Level 4)
- No Fees
- NZQA Accredited
Paearu whakauru
Entry criteria
You can enrol if you:
Are 16 years or older
Are a NZ citizen or resident (includes Cook Islands, Niue, Tokelau) or Australian citizen/permanent resident
Currently reside in New Zealand
Hold a certificate in tikanga (Level 3) or demonstrate equivalent knowledge
Te wā
Time commitment
This programme is:
Full-time
60 credits
20 weeks long (includes holiday breaks)
Classroom-based, with workshops and noho marae
Kōnae ako
Learning modules
Ki hea, mō āhea hoki au ako ai?
Where and when can I learn?
Kaupapa anamata
Upcoming events
He Puāwaitanga Whakatāne 2026
Graduation Ceremony, Whakatāne
He Puāwaitanga Kawerau 2026
Graduation Ceremony, Kawerau
He Puāwaitanga Whirikoka 2026
Graduation Ceremony, Gisborne
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