Ratonga whakauru me ngā wheako

Yes. Many of our tauira work full-time, care for whānau, or manage other commitments - and they still succeed. 

Our programmes include a mix of teaching hours (with your kaiako in class, wānanga, or at noho) and learning time outside the classroom that you can plan around your own life.

If you work full-time, it’s important to think about how study will fit into your week. Some weeks may be busier than others, especially around noho, assessments, or big projects – so flexibility and good time management will help. You’ll need to take responsibility for creating the space and time to learn, but support is always available to help you succeed.

Everyone studies differently, some people pick things up quickly, others need more practice. What learning looks like for you might be different to your peers, and that’s okay.

Yes, you can. Many of our programmes are open to learners under 18 - just check the entry requirements for the programme you're interested in. Some programmes may have a minimum age or extra conditions, so make sure to review the details before applying.

If you’re under 18 years, you’ll need a signed parental or legal guardian consent form.

This form:

• Confirms your caregiver agrees to your enrolment

• Lets you tell us if we can talk to your parent/guardian about your study

• Gives us permission to contact your parent/guardian if we can’t reach you directly

That’s okay. Many tauira are returning to learning after a long break.

Your kaiako understands this and will support you to build confidence and skills at your own pace.

Yes. Some programmes offer classes in the evenings.

Class times vary by programme and location. Check the programme page for up to date details about days and times.

If you’ve submitted your application and supplied the required documents or extra requirements, most applications are processed to 'provisional' within a few days.

Once you receive a 'provisional enrolment notification,' this means your place in the class is held for you. If your programme requires an interview or police vetting, it might take a little longer. We'll be in touch to arrange this.

When your class reaches its minimum numbers and is approved to run, your enrolment will be updated to current. There may be a wait between being provisional and becoming current.

Throughout your journey, you’ll receive email updates as your enrolment moves from submitted → provisional → current.

Tip: If our email hasn't arrived, check your junk or spam folder just in case. 

No. Most of our programmes are full-time, so you can only be enrolled in one programme at a time. In limited cases, a small overlap may be approved (for example, a short part-time course alongside a full-time programme), but this isn’t encouraged and restrictions apply.

Can I study a part-time programme alongside my full-time programme?

Only by exception and with approval. It’s not encouraged and limits apply, so please check with us first.

Can I hold a place in two programmes while I decide?

No. Places are limited, so apply for one programme. If you change your mind, we’ll help you move your application. If you’re unsure which programme fits best, talk to us before you apply and we’ll help you decide.

If you’ve already applied and want to change your choice, contact us and we’ll help you switch your application rather than submitting a new one.

Phone: 0800 355 553
Email: tauira@twoa.ac.nz

Some of our programmes fill quickly, and you may be waitlisted until a space becomes available.

You can choose to wait, explore other classes with space, or you can choose a different programme. If a space becomes available, it’s first in, first served – so you're not guaranteed a place until you're made provisional and have met all requirements.

Circumstances can change for tauira and spaces sometimes become available just before or after the programme has started. If that happens, you may receive a call asking if you'd like to take one of these spaces.

If you don't get in, we'll keep your details on file and give you the first opportunity to enrol in the next intake.

If your plans change, or you need to update your details, contact us as soon as you can.

We can help you:

• Withdraw your application

• Change your programme or location preference

Phone 0800 355 553 or email tauira@twoa.ac.nz and we’ll guide you through the steps.

No. You do not need to be Māori to study at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.

Our programmes are open to adult New Zealand citizens or residents (or citizens of Australia, Tokelau, Niue or the Cook Islands). We welcome learners from all cultures and backgrounds who want to grow their skills, confidence, and knowledge in a supportive, kaupapa Māori learning environment.

You don’t need to be fluent in te reo or tikanga Māori for most programmes or job roles at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.

Your NSN is your unique education ID. It's kept in a National Student Index (NSI) database and every learner in Aotearoa has one. We use it to confirm who you are, find your records quickly, and protect your privacy.

To find your NSN:

• Follow the instructions online at: https://www2.nzqa.govt.nz/login/national-student-number-nsn/

• Ask your school

• Call NZQA on 0800 697 296

What happens if I can't find my NSN or if I don't have one?

That's ok. We'll need to see the original or certified copy of your ID. Then we'll be able to issue an NSN to you.

If you already have an active and verified NSN (national student number), you don’t need to supply certified ID documents. Your NSN confirms your identity with us.

If you’re a returning tauira, we’ll usually have your verified details on file, so you won’t need to provide them again – unless we contact you to confirm or update something. In rare cases, such as changes to your details or if we can’t match your original verification, we may ask you to provide ID again.

If you’re a new tauira and don’t yet have a verified NSN, you’ll need to show your original ID or provide certified copies when you apply.

What are certified copies and where can I get this done?

Certified copies are photocopies of your original ID documents that have been officially verified as true and accurate. The following are approved:

• Birth certificate or

• Birth certificate and marriage certificate (if you've changed your name)

• Passport

• Passport and marriage certificate (if your name is different to your passport)

• Resident visa (if not a citizen of New Zealand, Australia, Tokelau, Niue or the Cool Islands)

Note: We cannot accept your drivers license as a form of identification.

You can get your documents certified in two ways:

• At Te Wānanga o Aotearoa – bring your original ID to one of our sites and an authorised kaimahi (staff member) can verify them for you.

• By an authorised person in your community – take your original documents and photocopies to a Justice of the Peace, solicitor, or court registrar, who can sign and stamp them to confirm they’re genuine.

If you’re enrolling online, you can also send certified copies of your ID with your completed enrolment form instead of bringing the originals in person.

Some programmes at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa include an interview as part of the enrolment process. This helps us make sure the programme is the right fit for you and that you’ll have the support you need to succeed.

The interview is a friendly kōrero (conversation), not a test.

It’s a chance to:

• Talk about your goals and interests

• Ask questions about the programme

• Discuss your availability and any support you might need

• Confirm that you understand what’s involved in your studies

In some programmes, especially where places are limited or extra requirements apply (like teaching or social services), the interview also helps us meet NZQA and the Children’s Act 2014 obligations.

If an interview is needed, we’ll be in touch to arrange a time that works best for you.

Some programmes at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa involve working with tamariki (children), rangatahi (young people), or vulnerable adults. For these programmes, we’re legally required to make sure everyone taking part meets safety and suitability standards under the Children’s Act 2014 and related regulations.

Police vetting helps us confirm that tauira are safe to work with others and that our learning environments remain safe and trusted for everyone.

If your programme needs police vetting, we’ll let you know during the application process and guide you through what’s required. You’ll be asked to complete a consent form, and we’ll handle the rest directly with New Zealand Police.

If you’re applying for one of our toi (art) programmes, you may need to submit a portfolio as part of your application. Your portfolio helps us understand your creative background. It’s not about perfection, it’s about potential.

Include a selection of your work (around 8-10 pieces) that show your skills, interests, and ideas.

You may also like to include a short written piece on:

• Why you want to study toi

• What inspires your work

• Any previous experience or learning you’ve had

You don’t need to spend money on framing or printing. A simple digital presentation is fine.

You’re not alone! Many tauira worry about this part, especially if it’s been a while since they studied.

The assessment isn’t a test you can pass or fail. It simply helps us understand where you’re at so we can support your learning.

We can:

• Explain what the assessment involves

• Arrange a practice version

• Connect you with support before or after you take it

Phone 0800 355 553 or email tauira@twoa.ac.nz and we’ll guide you through the steps. If you need extra help, just let your kaiako or kaitiaki know and we’ll work alongside you.

Some programmes have a name we use for teaching and marketing - this is the programme name.

The qualification name is the official NZQA title that appears on your Record of Learning and your NZQA tohu.

Both names refer to the same study pathway, but the NZQA title must follow the national framework.

Example:

• Programme name: Te Ara Reo Māori (He Pī Ka Pao) Levels 1 and 2

• Qualification name: New Zealand Certificate in Te Reo (Reo Rua) Level 1, New Zealand Certificate in Te Reo (Reo Rua) Level 2

Most programmes at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa are approved by NZQA. That means we are accredited to deliver programmes that meet national standards.

You can also search the qualification on the NZQA framework to confirm. https://www.nzqa.govt.nz/nzqf/search/results.do

For most of our programmes, instead of unit standards, you’ll complete kōnae ako (learning modules) that have been developed by Te Wānanga o Aotearoa to reflect te ao Māori and the needs of our tauira.

• These are fully assessed and count towards your qualification

• Kōnae ako themselves won’t appear on your NZQA Record of Learning

• Your official NZQA Record of Learning will show the qualification name, which may differ from the name of the programme that you have enrolled in

Check out the programme page for more information about the programme and qualification you'll receive.

NZQA accreditation requires an additional fee to include the kōnae ako (learning modules) on the Record of Learning. This cost is not currently funded by Te Wānanga o Aotearoa.

Select the same kaiako and class time in each of your applications and make sure everyone submits all required documents. You can also call us to add a note to your application. We try to keep groups together, but classes fill quickly so it’s not guaranteed.

For home-based programmes, call our call centre with the names of the people you want to study with. The team will place you in the same cohort.

When your class reaches its minimum numbers and is approved to run, your enrolment will be updated to current.

You'll receive an email confirmation of your enrolment and all the details about your first class.

Yes. Regular attendance is important and expected.

If you’re unable to attend a class due to illness, whānau responsibilities, or other commitments, let your kaiako know as soon as you can so they can support you.

Most of our programmes combine two kinds of learning - kaiako-directed and what you do on your own. Here's what each looks like:

Kaiako-directed learning hours

These are your structured class times and group sessions:

• Face-to-face with your kaiako or other presenters

• Wānanga, noho (overnight learning experiences), or online sessions

• Practice, revision, and assessment activities

Activity-directed learning hours

These are the tasks and activities you complete outside of class:

• Working through programme resources (like workbooks, audio, video, or online activities)

• Completing aromatawai (assessments) and required reading

• Practising your skills – for example, saying a karakia at home or work

• Doing research, reflection, or group study

Each programme has a different schedule and study format, so your learning experience may vary.

What is class like?

Your first class is mostly about settling in. You’ll:

• Meet your kaiako and classmates

• Go over what you’ll learn and how the programme runs

• Hear about support services and how to get help

• Check key info like timetable, delivery mode (on campus/online/noho), assessments, and expectations

• Make sure you can access the Tauira Portal and any online tools

It’s relaxed and welcoming. A chance to ask questions and get confident about what’s ahead.

What should I bring to my first class?

• A pen and notebook

• A device (laptop/tablet) and charger if you have one (optional)

• Your class confirmation details (on your phone is fine)

• Any programme-specific items your kaiako has listed (you’ll be told if you need anything special)

If your class is online or home-based:

• Test your internet, camera and mic

• Find a quiet space and have your login details handy

• Join a few minutes early so we can help if you have any issues

If your class is a workshop or noho:

• Follow any safety and PPE instructions sent by your kaiako (e.g. closed-toe shoes for workshops)

• For noho, your kaiako will confirm what to bring (e.g. bedding, toiletries)

If you’re unsure, wait for your welcome letter or ask us.

There's no need to buy anything extra before you know what’s required.

Each programme has its own resource requirements. Your programme will provide the core materials you need to learn, and your kaiako will confirm the details of this in class.

What we usually provide:

• Programme learning materials

• Access to online learning tools through Te Matakā – your Tauira Portal

• Study spaces, online library and computer labs at many sites (check local opening hours)

• Guidance from kaiako/kaitiaki on any programme-specific supplies

What you’re responsible for:

• A laptop or computer and reliable internet for online work

• Basic stationery (notebook, pens)

• Any programme-specific items your kaiako lists, e.g. art materials

Some retailers offer student pricing, and some programmes recommend specific items or specifications. Talk to your kaiako before making any major purchases.

Many programmes have online requirements. If you do not have access to a computer or the internet regularly, then our home-based options might be a better choice for you.

Your kaiako will let you know the best way to contact them in your first class. If you need to contact them prior to your start date, you can call our contact centre.

Many campuses hold a pōwhiri or whakatau at the start of your programme or semester. It’s how we welcome you into our learning community and your attendance is strongly encouraged.

What to expect:

• You’ll gather outside the campus and be guided through the process (no expertise required)

• Whānau are welcome where space allows (your invite will have the details)

• If you have accessibility needs, tell us in advance so we can support you

• We’ll email you the time, place, and any tikanga for your campus welcome before you start.

Is there a pōwhiri or whakatau for online and home-based programmes?

Not on site. If you’re studying online or home-based, your welcome happens in your first class or during a whanaungatanga kōrero (first visit) with your kaitiaki. If you live near a campus and would like to attend an in-person welcome, call us, you may be able to join a local event.

Please pay your fees within 30 days of your programme's start date.

Starting tertiary study or work-based learning for the first time? You may be able to get Fees Free after you complete your first eligible qualification or programme. 

Fees Free covers the cost of your fees for the final year of study or final two years of work-based learning, up to $12,000.

When you enrol, you will need to pay your fees. To help you cover this cost, you may wish to apply for a student loan. Find out more at Student loan – StudyLink.

For more information on the eligibility requirements and when it is best to apply for Fees Free, visit Fees Free – Inland Revenue. 

Am I eligible?

To receive Fees Free, you must meet the eligibility criteria for the type of study or training you wish to enrol in. The course or programme you are enrolled in also needs to be eligible for Fees Free. Provider-based study refers to courses where you are studying on campus, or online.

No. If your course at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa does not have fees or compulsory course costs then you will not use up your fees free entitlement. 

Our Student Finance team verifies your study once your enrolment is current. Verification requests are processed in batches, so it may take a little time. If you haven’t received your Confirmation of Study letter, check your junk or spam folder first. If it's not there, contact our call centre and we'll check your status for you.