Manawatū hosts Te Manu Taikō for high school students

The attendees from Havelock North High School, Palmerston North Boys’ High School, Freyberg High School, Awatapu College and Waiopehu College were informed about what it takes to get to university and how to be successful once you get there.

The students were fortunate to hear from Associate Dean Māori Dr Farah Palmer, Tainui, Ngāti Maniapoto, on leadership and identity, and also participate in a Pūrākau/Māori storytelling workshop with Tracey Hepi, Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, from the School of Humanities, Media and Creative Communication. 

Student Recruitment Adviser Māori Tania Jahnke, Ngāti Porou, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, says TMT is an opportunity for rangatahi Māori to get a taste of university life so they can visualise themselves in the space.

“It is important we host events like this to normalise and encourage success for Māori students in both professional and educational pursuits, all the while recognising their cultural identity, heritage, and background add value to their ongoing learning and educational journey.”

 The students learnt how to access and apply for various scholarships, and heard from current Māori students at Massey who shared their lived experiences.

Palmerston North Boys’ High School student Reagan Jensen says, “I learnt that there are many opportunities for Māori students and challenges are a normal experience.” 

Another attendee, Tiaki Hirini from Waiopehu College says, “I really enjoyed learning about university as a whole and hearing from current Massey students who are going through the experience. It was good to know that I won’t be alone and that there is support for me.