Tuia mentoring programme
Tuia Mentoring Programme 2026
Applications for the Tuia Mentoring Programme for 2026 are now open. This is an opportunity for rangatahi Māori to connect into a nationwide forum to grow, to inspire, to further your leadership skills while learning more about local government and making meaningful contributions to their communities.
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The Tuia kaupapa is long-term, intergenerational approach to develop and enhance the way rangatahi contribute to communities throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.
Every year, one or two rangatahi Māori will be selected to be mentored by willing councillors on a one-on-one basis, to encourage and enhance leadership skills. The tuakana–teina relationship provides both partners with the opportunity to gain a deeper insight into inter-generational issues.
Rangatahi will 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.
2026 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 can you apply?
We want you to create a two-minute video where you tell us:
- Your name and a brief self-introduction, and
- the reasons why you should be selected for the Tuia kaupapa.
To submit your video.
- Access Facebook Messenger and start a new conversation with Waikato Regional Council.
- Send us your video, along with your contact details and the contact details of the community which is supporting your application.
- Please keep your video shorter than two minutes. Any videos longer than this will not be accepted.
For more information, please email Roger Lewis at roger.lewis@waikatoregion.govt.nz