Applications for the Tuia programme for 2025 are now open, giving young Māori the opportunity to learn more about local government and enhance their leadership skills.

The programme is open to applications from rangatahi Māori aged between 18 to 25 years old who reside in the Christchurch City Council district and are keen to actively contribute to the well-being of their community.

What is it?

The Tuia programme is an intentional, long-term, intergenerational approach to develop and enhance the way in which rangatahi Māori contribute to their communities throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.

Every year, one or two young Māori rangatahi will be selected to be mentored by the Mayor regularly on a one-to-one basis, to encourage and enhance leadership skills. The relationship provides both partners with the opportunity to gain a deeper insight into inter-generational issues, cultural values and experiences.

Rangatahi will also have the opportunity to build peer networks with graduates of the programme, obtain support, and receive leadership training by attending leadership development wānanga over the course of the year.

View the 2025 Prospectus(external link)

What it involves

The young people will commit to:

  • Meet with the Mayor regularly;
  • Be involved in additional community events at the invitation of the Mayor (where practical);
  • Attend three three-day and two four-day wānanga (leadership forums) per year;
  • Community contribution project(s) over a 12-month period (approx 100hrs).

2025 Wānanga

  • March: Wānanga one - Tuia i Runga (Weaving above), Waikato.
  • May: Wānanga two - Tuia i Raro (Weaving below), Waiariki/Bay of Plenty.
  • July: Wānanga three - Tuia i Roto (Weaving within), Te Waipounamu.
  • September: Wānanga four - Tuia i Waho (Weaving without), Hawkes Bay.
  • November: Wānanga five - Tuia te Here Tangata (Weaving the threads of humanity), Wellington.

How to apply

To apply, please fill out the application form below by Friday 31 January 2025.

For more information, please contact:

Tara Hohaia

Community Development Advisor Māori

Email: tara.hohaia@ccc.govt.nz

Make an application