Tairangatia
We envision a future where Māori and Pacific scholars lead innovative, impactful research that reflects the diversity and strength of our communities. By nurturing belonging, connection, and academic excellence, this Motu empowers students to pursue research with confidence and pride.
Building Confident, Connected, and Thriving Scholars
Ngā Motu Whakahī is dedicated to fostering a strong and supportive community of Māori and Pacific students with a passion for research. Our goal is to create pathways that help students build confidence, capability, and a sense of belonging within the research environment. Through cohort-based experiences and mentoring, we aim to ensure that Māori and Pacific scholars see themselves as active contributors to the research landscape of Aotearoa and beyond.
Tairangatia Summer Scholarship Programme
Our flagship initiative, the Tairangatia Summer Scholarship, supports 10–20 Māori and Pacific undergraduate students each year to undertake hands-on research projects alongside academic mentors. At the conclusion of the programme, scholars come together for a Research Celebration, where they present their summer projects to peers, whānau, and staff — a moment to recognise achievement and share discoveries.
To further highlight these successes, we are developing communication materials such as short films that celebrate participants and make their achievements visible across the university and wider community.
Ngā Motu Whakahī Stage 1 Research Experience Award
Introduced in 2025, the Ngā Motu Whakahī Stage 1 Research Experience Award provides early exposure to research for first-year (Stage 1) Māori and Pacific students at Waipapa Taumata Rau. Each year, these students are paired with postgraduate mentors for a hands-on research experience, offering valuable insight into the skills, collaboration, and creativity that research involves.
Supporting the Postgraduate Journey
Ngā Motu Whakahī also has a strong presence at postgraduate orientations, ensuring that Māori and Pacific students feel supported from their first day of postgraduate study. Through mentorship, networking, and access to research opportunities, we help students thrive at every stage of their academic journey.
I wouldn’t change my experience! I have made good connections with most of the other students, which is awesome, and I got to learn how research is done, which has definitely made me excited for my future endeavours in the research space
My supervisors and other people we were working alongside were all extremely nice and made me feel welcome. Even though I’m an undergrad and don’t know as much as them, I felt comfortable enough to share my ideas.
