FOR YEAR 13 MĀORI STUDENTS

Become a Teina

Thinking about a career in health? Mai Tawhiti connects you with a current Māori health tauira who can support, encourage and guide you as you prepare for tertiary study.

Through one-to-one mentoring, workshops and shared experiences, you’ll gain confidence and practical advice from someone who’s recently walked the same path.

Apply Now Learn About the Programme
NEXT STEPS

Is Mai Tawhiti Right for Me?

Mai Tawhiti is designed for Year 13 Māori students who are considering a future in health. Whether you already know exactly what you want to study or you’re still exploring your options, the programme provides guidance, encouragement and practical support to help you take the next step.

  • Interested in a health career
  • Ready to learn from Māori health tauira
  • Want support transitioning to tertiary study
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What You’ll Receive

Personal Mentor

Be matched with a current Māori health tauira who understands the journey you’re about to begin.

Practical Advice

Learn about university life, scholarships, StudyLink and what to expect when studying health.

Ongoing Support

Receive encouragement throughout the programme from your mentor and the Mai Tawhiti team.

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Who Can Apply?

You can apply if you:

  • Are in Year 13
  • Identify as Māori
  • Are interested in studying health
  • Are registered with Kia Ora Hauora
Register with Kia Ora Hauora now
NEXT STEPS

How to Apply

01

Register with
Kia Ora Hauora

02

Complete your Application

03

We’ll review your application

04

Meet your
Tuakana

05

Begin your
journey

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.

Ready to begin your Journey?

Whether you’re preparing for tertiary health study or ready to support the next generation of Māori health professionals, we’d love to welcome you to the Mai Tawhiti whānau.

Register as a Teina
Still unsure, reach out to us here