Source: NZ Department of Conservation
Date: 22 October 2025 Source: Waikato-Tainui and University of Waikato
The two scholarships were established in 2024 through a partnership between University of Waikato, Waikato-Tainui and Te Papa Atawhai Department of Conservation.
Both scholarships were created in memory of two highly respected kaumaatua; Pokaia Nepia and Takiri mai te ata Turner. Fondly known as “Uncle Poka” and “Koro Taki”, they were instrumental in many organisations in the Waikato region, creating rich channels of communication and engagement to Waikato-Tainui.
Awarded based on academic merit, the scholarships were established to support Waikato-Tainui uri (descendant) in pursuing studies at the University of Waikato, focusing on areas that align with the strategic aspirations of the iwi.
The Taki Turner recipients are:
- Niki Crombie (Te Awamaarahi Marae)
- Shanaia Maniapoto-Clancy (Waingaro Marae)
- Teagan Ngataki (Whaataapaka Marae).
The two Pokaia Nepia scholars are:
- Tiffany Walker (Te Papa-o-Rotu marae)
- Ryan Metcalfe (Te Kaharoa (Aramiro) Marae).
Pokaia Nepia scholar Ryan Metcalfe (Te Kaharoa (Aramiro) Marae)
Image: Waikato-Tainui ©.
Waikato-Tainui General Manager for Heritage and Identity, Glenda Taituha-Toka says Waikato-Tainui is really excited to bring strategic partnerships closer to tribal members through these types of scholarshipsImage: Waikato-Tainui.
“Investment into education has been a priority since the establishment of the post-settlement entity and has produced much of our leadership today. Continuing the legacy that totara like Uncle Poka and Koro Taki left for us is a privilege, but also a challenge to our recipients to leave their own mark for their iwi.”
Te Ihorangi Maaori, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Maaori of the University of Waikato, Dr Sarah-Jane Tiakiwai said it was an extra special ceremony.
“Having these two scholarships being awarded as part of Kiingitanga Day reflects their commitment to the Kiingitanga and to the many kaupapa they were each involved in, including the taiao.
“It was a privilege having members of their whaanau presenting the awards. For the recipients, it makes these scholarships real – knowing they are stepping into the spaces left by these two humble men through their dedicated service to Waikato-Tainui and to the Kiingitanga.”
“As part of the Conservation Accord between Waikato-Tainui and Te Papa Atawhai Department of Conservation, we recognise the opportunity to support iwi aspirations across education, research and capability development through scholarships,” says DOC’s Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones.
“In discussing scholarship ideas with Waikato-Tainui leaders, two Waikato rangatira immediately came to our collective mind due to their commitment to the Kiingitanga, and conservation – Takiri mai te ata Turner and Pokaia Nepia.”
“We hope these scholarships support our future leaders in environmental spaces, with hopes their endeavours further grow Conservation aspirations for Waikato-Tainui supported by Te Papa Atawhai Department of Conservation and enable people to enjoy naturing in protected and flourishing environments.”
Contact
For media enquiries contact:
Email: media@doc.govt.nz
