Manu Taiko - Toro Parirau, New Zealand Certificate in Māori Governance (Level 4)
Business & Management
A course by
Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology
Gain first-level management and governance skills for Māori trusts and committees. This part-time Level 4 certificate prepares you for culturally-responsive leadership roles supporting Māori aspirations.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 5 locations
It will take a total of 6 months
Core skills this course teaches
Māori Cultural Leadership
Contribute effectively to Māori cultural, educational, and economic aspirations as a professional, ethical, and culturally responsive leader.
Governance Skills Development
Develop governance and management capabilities for roles such as trustee, committee member, or administrator within Māori trusts and entities.
Legal and Ethical Governance
Understand and apply legal frameworks, trust deeds, employment considerations, conflicts of interest, and ethical practices in governance roles.
What You're Signing Up For
The Manu Taiko - Toro Parirau, New Zealand Certificate in Māori Governance (Level 4) is designed to build the professional, ethical, social, and culturally responsive leadership and governance skills needed by Māori and iwi trusts. Delivered on week nights and occasional weekend wānanga, the programme enables learners to contribute to Māori economic, educational, and cultural aspirations while maintaining work commitments. Graduates become equipped to fulfil a variety of kaupapa Māori-based governance and management roles across trust and committee structures.
Course Content
- Apiti Hono Tātai Hono: Exploring kotahitanga and whānaungatanga in governance, planning, and relationship management.
- He Āhuru Mōwai: Kaitiakitanga as it relates to financial management, risk and asset management, fiduciary responsibilities.
- Mana Tangata, Mana Mauri: Pono and tika in governance systems, legal frameworks, employment matters, conflicts of interest, and risk mitigation.
- He Taniwha Hiku Roa: Rangatiratanga through active leadership, strategic planning, and governance versus management.
What you need to know first
Open entry. No minimum academic requirements.
Ākonga for whom English, te reo Māori, or New Zealand Sign Language is not a first language must provide evidence of English language proficiency.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Governance
Māori Trusts
Non-profit sector
Future employment opportunities might be
Trustee or committee member on Māori trusts or entities
Administrator or secretary in governance bodies
Treasurer, trust chair, committee member, or kaitiaki in Māori Land Court-related roles
Entry-level management roles in kaupapa Māori organisations
Known for hands-on, industry-aligned education, Toi Ohomai focuses on giving learners real skills that lead to real outcomes. With strong employer connections, supportive teaching, and clear pathways across certificates, diplomas, and degrees, it’s a place where learning stays relevant and confidence grows over time. Programmes span trades, construction, business, health, creative industries, technology, and primary industries, helping learners build experience and momentum for whatever comes next.