FOR PARENTS, WHĀNAU & SCHOOLS

Supporting the Next Generation

Behind every successful student is a strong support network. Mai Tawhiti works alongside whānau, schools and communities to help Year 13 Māori students transition confidently into tertiary health study.

Recommend a Student Learn About the Programme

Why Your Support Matters

The transition from secondary school to tertiary study is a significant milestone. Encouragement from whānau, teachers and trusted adults can make a lasting difference in helping rangatahi believe they belong in health.

Mai Tawhiti complements the support already provided by families and schools by connecting students with current Māori health tauira who can share their experiences and provide practical guidance.

How Mai Tawhiti Supports Students

One-to-one Mentoring

Students are matched with a current Māori health tauira who provides guidance, encouragement and support.

Practical
Preparation

Participants learn about university life, scholarships, StudyLink and health career pathways.

Kaupapa
Māori

Every mentoring relationship is grounded in kaupapa Māori, fostering confidence, belonging and cultural connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re a future health student, current health tauira or supporting a young person on their journey, here are answers to some of the most common questions about Mai Tawhiti.

Mai Tawhiti is open to:
Teina – Year 13 Māori students interested in pursuing a career in health.
Tuakana – Current Māori health tauira who would like to support and mentor future students.

Yes. Mai Tawhiti is a mentoring programme delivered by Kia Ora Hauora. All participants must be registered with Kia Ora Hauora before joining the programme. If you’re not already registered, we’ll guide you through the registration process before your mentoring journey begins.

Each Teina is matched with a Tuakana studying a health qualification. Together you’ll meet online throughout the programme to share experiences, ask questions and build a supportive mentoring relationship.

No. Mai Tawhiti is free for all approved participants.

We carefully match participants based on factors such as health career interests, study pathway, location where possible and other information provided during the application process. Our goal is to create mentoring relationships that are meaningful and supportive.

Yes. Mentoring sessions are held online, making it easy for participants from across Aotearoa to connect, regardless of where they live.

If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch and our team will be happy to help.

Know a Student Who Could Benefit?

If you know a Year 13 Māori student interested in a career in health, encourage them to explore Mai Tawhiti and register with Kia Ora Hauora.

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