Maunga Kura Toi - Bachelor of Māori Art
Visual Arts
A course by
NorthTec
A three-year degree in Māori Arts, offering specialisations in Whakairo (Carving), Rāranga (Weaving), or Rauangi (Visual Arts), grounded in Tikanga, Mātauranga Māori, and customary knowledge.
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 4 locations
It will take a total of 3 years
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Develop advanced skills in Māori Arts
Produce a portfolio demonstrating advanced technical, theoretical, and conceptual competencies in selected kaupapa toi (Māori art stream).
Practice in kaupapa Māori context
Analyse, select, and apply creative techniques and practices according to kaupapa Māori frameworks.
Research and reflect critically
Conduct research, use academic conventions appropriately, and reflect critically on creative processes and works.
What You're Signing Up For
Maunga Kura Toi - Bachelor of Māori Art gives ākonga (students) the opportunity to deeply engage with Māori philosophies, principles, and knowledge through Whakairo (Carving), Rāranga (Weaving), or Rauangi (Visual Arts). The programme equips graduates to contribute meaningfully to Toi Māori, Te Ao Māori, and associated industries and communities. Students develop advanced technical, theoretical, and conceptual skills, participate in practical and collaborative projects, learn reflective and analytical critique, and are supported by passionate, skilled kaiako. Study blends in-person and online learning, with regular marae-based wānanga and access to local facilities and workshops.
Course Content
- Mātauranga Māori
- Principled practice and praxis
- Research and reflective practice
- Kaupapa toi: Whakairo (Carving), Rāranga (Weaving), or Rauangi (Visual arts)
- Taumata Atakura papers: integrating principle approaches to toi practice
- Practical art creation and development
- Portfolio development and creative process explanation
- Academic conventions and research
- Reflective critique of personal and others' work
- Electives in teaching or business skills
What you need to know first
Must be at least 16 years old
Able to communicate in English at a basic level
Physically able to complete the programme outcomes
Interview and portfolio required
NZ citizenship or permanent residence (or citizen of Australia, Tokelau, Niue, Cook Islands)
IELTS 5.5 (no band lower than 5) or equivalent (if English is not first language)
Year 1 (Level 5): Kāwai Raupapa - Certificate in Māori Art or equivalent Level 4 toi qualification (120 credits), or NCEA Level 2; or relevant experience
Year 2 (Level 6): Toi Paematua – Diploma of Māori Art (Level 5) or NZ Diploma in Ngā Toi (Level 5) or recognition of prior learning
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Arts
Education
Cultural Heritage
Tourism
Future employment opportunities might be
Artist (Carver, Sculptor, Painter)
Curator or conservator in museums and galleries
Art education (secondary, Kura Kaupapa, tertiary level)
Art studio or gallery owner
Māori design for business, media, and creative industries
Event or exhibition organiser
Tourism roles connected to arts and culture
Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details