Te Whakakitenga o Waikato Incorporated ("we" or "us" or "Waikato-Tainui")
The He Tahaa Piri Taha Grant supports Waikato-Tainui tribal members undertaking Maaori Medium and Kaupapa Maaori teaching studies who may be experiencing additional pressures or barriers while completing their studies.
For the 2026 year, five grants of NZD 2,000 each are available.
Most grant application payments take up to 8 weeks for processing, approval and payment (if approved). Payment is due on the 21st of each month.
Terms and Conditions
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Be a registered Waikato-Tainui tribal member
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Be in the final year of an approved teaching qualification in 2026
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Be studying towards Maaori Medium or Kaupapa Maaori teaching pathways
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Be enrolled full-time with an approved Initial Teacher Education (ITE) provider
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Provide proof of enrolment and confirmation of Tribal Membership
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Complete the application form in full
Only one grant application is available per applicant in any financial year period.
Sole discretion to accept, withdraw or defer a grant application that does not meet criteria rests with us. Decisions are final and no correspondence will be entered into. Incomplete applications will be withdrawn after 60 days and a new application form needs to be completed.
Most grant application payments take up to 6 weeks for processing, approval and payment (if approved). Payment is due on the 21st of each month.
Grant Application
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for the grant?
Applicants must be registered Waikato-Tainui tribal members in their final year of teaching qualification focused on Maaori Medium or Kaupapa Maaori education.
When do applications open?
Applications open Thursday 28 May 2026.
When will successful applicants be notified?
Successful applicants will be notified following the review process.
How much is the grant worth?
Each grant is valued at $2,000.
How many grants are available?
Five grants are available for 2026.
What types of teaching programmes are eligible?
Programmes focused on Maaori Medium and Kaupapa Maaori teaching pathways are eligible.
What does “final year of study” mean?
Applicants must be completing the final year of their approved Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programme during 2026.
Do I need to study full-time?
Yes. Applicants must be enrolled full-time with an approved Initial Teacher Education (ITE) provider.
Can I apply if I study online?
Yes, provided your programme is through an approved ITE provider and meets the Maaori Medium or Kaupapa Maaori focus criteria.
Can I apply if I am studying outside the Waikato region?
Yes. Applicants may study anywhere in Aotearoa provided they meet the grant criteria.
Can postgraduate teaching qualifications apply?
Yes, if the qualification is recognised as an approved Initial Teacher Education programme and aligns with the grant focus.
What can the grant help with?
The grant may support:
- Transport costs
- Childcare responsibilities
- Study-related costs
- Technology needs
- Wellbeing pressures
- Personal or whaanau circumstances impacting study continuation and completion
Do I need to explain my circumstances?
Applicants may be asked to provide a short statement explaining how the grant would support their study journey. Only share what you feel comfortable sharing.
Do I need to provide evidence of hardship?
Supporting information may be requested where appropriate. The process is intended to be mana-enhancing and supportive rather than burdensome.
Can I apply if I receive StudyLink or other support?
Yes. You can still apply if you receive StudyLink or other support.
Can I apply more than once?
No. Recipients may only receive the grant once.
What happens if I withdraw from my studies?
Please notify the team as soon as possible. Grant arrangements may be reviewed depending on individual circumstances.
Will there be interviews?
No formal interviews are planned; however, applicants may be contacted if additional information is required.
Who can I contact if I need help?
For questions or support, please contact temaatauranga@tainui.co.nz.