Te whare
About us
Te Wānanga o Aotearoa
A uniquely Māori learning environment for everyone
If you’re a New Zealand citizen or resident living in Aotearoa, we have amazing study possibilities for you. Our programmes range from certificates to degrees and are offered across the country.
At Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, learning is more than study. We create learning experiences that honour whānau and kaupapa Māori. In this environment, tauira (students) and kaimahi (employees) thrive together, guided by values that strengthen identity and connection.
“The kaiako were like friends to us and very patient explaining things we didn’t understand.
The classroom was always filled with laughter.”
Sophie Li, graduate tauira.
He takapau mātauranga, he whānau huarewa
Whānau transformation through education
We aspire to the collective success of our tauira, their whānau and communities.
Te Wānanga o Aotearoa was founded on the belief that education can transform whānau. From humble beginnings addressing the education challenges in Te Awamutu to becoming the second largest tertiary provider in the country, our kaupapa-driven approach continues to empower thousands of tauira and their whānau every year.
"The relationships and doors opened for me and my whānau has been life-changing, and now I’ll be able to give back to other whānau with the manaaki and aroha that has been given to me.” Alex Maddox, tauira
Kia angitu te tauira
Tauira success
Everything we do focuses on contributing to greater success for our tauira.
“I noticed that a few tauira were struggling and instead of letting them give up we formed a study group to help each other. This was the best experience because it wasn’t just about learning but whakawhanaungatanga too.”
Piri-Kapua Allen, tauira
Ko te kaupapa matua
Our guiding philosophy
Your learning journey is guided by kaupapa Māori values. We don’t just deliver programmes, we create learning that connects to who you are, your whānau, and your future.
Here, study is about more than getting a qualification. It’s about belonging, growing, and standing strong in today’s world.
Ko ngā uara
Our values
Woven into all we do, our values guide our decisions and actions to support and uplift our tauira.
Te aroha
Having regard for one another and those for whom we are responsible and to whom we are accountable.
Te whakapono
The basis of our beliefs and the confidence that what we are doing is right.
Ngā ture
The knowledge that our actions are morally and ethically right and that we are acting in an honourable manner.
Kotahitanga
Unity amongst iwi and other ethnicities; standing as one.
Ako wānanga
Our learning framework
Ako Wānanga is unique to Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. It is our way of teaching and learning, inspired by the whare (meeting house). Each pou (pillar) represents a practice that helps you succeed and together, these pou create a framework that holds and supports every tauira.
What this means for you as a learner:
You learn in a space that values culture, community, and wellbeing
You are supported to succeed, no matter where you’ve come from
You can connect with your whakapapa and identity while gaining practical skills for your career
You are part of a whānau that walks alongside you
Your success is our purpose
Whanaungatanga
Respectful relationships and connections
You’ll build lasting friendships and support networks with kaiako and classmates.
Ako
Living, learning, teaching
Learning is shared, practical and relevant to your life.
Aro
Reflective practice
You'll be encouraged to reflect, grow, and transform through your studies.
Te hiringa
Spirituality, passion, motivation
We'll help you find your drive and bring your whole self to learning.
Ngā pātai auau
Common questions