As someone of  Maori descent, do you want to learn more about your language, customs, art and tikanga – with a specific Tai Tokerau focus?

Perhaps you come from another culture with a desire to learn Te Reo and to better understand Maori culture and arts.

Or maybe you are on a journey into education in another field, but want to firstly develop confidence and knowledge of who you are in a warm supportive environment.

Whatever journey brings you here, we welcome you to our Te Puna programmes.

This is place where many pathways and journeys cross. Some lead into our Maori arts programmes where you will study customary practices using natural materials and resources - informed with Nga Puhi narratives and with a strong focus on Tikanga Maori. 

Or you might branch off into more contemporary expressions of those traditional skills.

Other pathways bring you to an in-depth understanding of marae protocol, customs and values.  And, at the heart of all our learning here is Te Reo, our rich and beautiful Maori language, which opens up so many aspects of Maori culture and knowledge to us.

Many of our mature students come with a lot of life-learnings and a real thirst for knowledge. They often make a big commitment to organise their lives to join us here.  Others come with the sense that they are at the very beginning of their journey. 

No matter how old you are, who you are, or where you come from, if you come with a desire to learn and to share, you will find a warm, inclusive environment here.

You may find that you come for one aspect, but discover another path that compels you to follow it.  No problem! Our courses are designed to provide you with stepping stones. You might start with a foundation course, move on to our 2 year diploma – and from there, who knows?  Just watch your whole world open up!