Te Whakakitenga o Waikato Incorporated ("we" or "us" or "Waikato-Tainui")
The Ranea Te Toi Scholarship supports Waikato-Tainui tribal members in the final year of an approved teaching qualification focused on Maaori Medium and Kaupapa Maaori education.
For the 2026 year, two scholarships of NZD 10,000 each are available.
Please note: Interviews for these scholarships may be requested to assist in the scholarship awarding process.
Applications Open: Thursday 28 May 2026
Applications Close: Friday 26 June 2026
Successful Applicants Notified: By Friday 10 July 2026
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 a current CV, proof of enrolment and proof of Tribal Membership
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Complete the application form in full
Recipients will join a supportive cohort throughout the year, including mentoring and academic guidance, and support with study planning. Successful applicants will also be required to attend two cohort waananga.
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 Incomplete applications will be withdrawn after 60 days and a new application form needs to be completed.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?
Applicants must be registered Waikato-Tainui tribal members completing the final year of an approved teaching qualification focused on Maaori Medium or Kaupapa Maaori education.
When do applications open and close?
Applications open Thursday 28 May 2026 and close Friday 26 June 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by Friday 10 July 2026.
How many scholarships are available?
Two scholarships are available for 2026.
How much is the scholarship worth?
Each scholarship is valued at $10,000.
Do I need to be enrolled full-time?
Yes. Applicants must be enrolled full-time in 2026.
Can I study online?
Yes. Online study is accepted if your programme is through an approved Initial Teacher Education (ITE) provider and aligns with Maaori Medium or Kaupapa Maaori teaching pathways.
Can I study outside the Waikato region?
Yes. Applicants can study anywhere in Aotearoa provided they meet the scholarship eligibility requirements.
Do I need to already work in a kura or school?
No. You do not need to already be employed in a kura or school to apply.
Do I need to be a registered Waikato-Tainui tribal member?
Yes. Applicants must be registered tribal members. If your registration is still being processed, we encourage you to begin that process as early as possible.
What documents do I need to provide?
Please include:
- Current CV
- Proof of enrolment
Do I need to include a CV?
Yes. Your CV should include your education, work experience, achievements, community involvement, and any relevant kaupapa Maaori or teaching experience.
What does “final year of study” mean?
Applicants must be completing the final year of their approved teaching qualification during 2026.
Can postgraduate teaching qualifications apply?
Yes, provided the qualification is recognised as an approved Initial Teacher Education programme and aligns with the scholarship focus.
Will there be interviews?
Formal interviews are not planned; however, applicants may be contacted if additional information is required during the review process.
What support is included in the scholarship?
Recipients will participate in a supportive cohort experience throughout the year, including mentoring, guidance and support opportunities.
Is participation in cohort activities required?
Yes. Participation forms part of the scholarship commitment.
What happens if I withdraw from study?
Recipients are expected to notify the scholarship team as soon as possible. Scholarship arrangements will be reviewed based on individual circumstances.
Can I submit my application after the closing date?
Late applications may not be accepted.
Who can I contact if I need help?
For questions or support with your application, please contact temaatauranga@tainui.co.nz.