Kia ora, Kia orana, Malo e lelei, Bula Vinaka, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Talofa lava, Malo ni,
Greetings to all.
Make a start on a trades career with the support of Te Mataora – Māori and Pasifika Trades Training fund. This is an opportunity to study fees-free (some course-related costs may apply), gain valuable knowledge and skills, and pathway onto an apprenticeship, employment or higher level of study.
Te Mataora is for Māori and Pasifika people aged between 16 – 40 years, enrolled and accepted into a Te Mataora supported qualification at UCOL Te Pūkenga. Places are limited, so we welcome your application.

Nate Ferrier
Kāi Tahu | Kāti Māmoe | Waitaha |Rapuwai
Kaiārahi
Joy Tufuga
Te Mataora New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills Student
Latoya Jope
Te Mataora New Zealand Certificate in Construction Trade Skills Student
Study offerings for February 2023 for Te Mataora at UCOL Te Pūkenga
Manawatū
Horowhenua, Taumarunui, and
Tutaenui
Tips for applying
- Talk with whānau, friends and supporters about this opportunity.
- Complete the
UCOL Te Pūkenga Enrolment Form and the
UCOL Te Pūkenga Te Mataora Application Form, and return forms to
a UCOL Te Pūkenga Information Centre.
- Ask for help – call 0800 GO UCOL (0800 468 265)
- You are advised to arrange other methods to pay your fees, in case your application for Te Mataora support and funding is unsuccessful.
If you would like more information email n.ferrier@ucol.ac.nz
What can I expect?
- Access to all
student services
- A safe, supportive learning environment
- Opportunity to develop relationships with employers while studying
- Assistance and preparation for gaining apprenticeships and employment
What is expected of me?
Any student that is selected for Te Mataora is expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to both study and progressing your career. This means you commit to:
- Attending class and doing the work
- Passing the programme
- Attending and completing any work-readiness programmes
- Keeping in contact with your key Te Mataora staff
- Keeping UCOL Te Pūkenga up-to-date with your contact details and any change of circumstances, eg. phone number change, withdrawals, etc.
Next steps
- The Te Mataora Coordinator will be in touch to arrange a meeting to discuss your application.
- Review the 'Ready to study checklist' below to help you get ready, and be prepared to talk about your answers with the Te Mataora Coordinator.
- You will find out the result of your application.
Ready to study checklist
Kei te reri ahau ki te ako? (Am I ready to study?)
When deciding to study, there are many factors that you need to think about. This checklist will assist you to start making sure you are ready to study.
-
Hihiri (Motivation) - Why am I doing this? What are my short and long-term goals?
-
Tautoko (Support) - Who are my support networks and how will I use them? What extra support might I need?
-
Pūkenga ako (Study skills) - How will I plan my study? Do I need help with this?
-
Wā (Time) - Do I know how to manage my time effectively? What other commitments do I have that may impact on my study?
-
Pūtea (Money) - Do I have financial support while I study? Do I know how to apply for allowances through StudyLink? What are my requirements if I am on a WINZ benefit? Do I have a current bank account?
-
Rauemi (Resources) - What other items might I need as part of my study? Do I have a birth certificate, current passport, 18+ card or other form of identification? Do I know my IRD number?
-
Hui (Meeting) - Do I need to discuss my Te Mataora application and programme with UCOL Te Pūkenga staff?
Ehara taku toa he toa takitahi, he toa takitini.
Success is gained not by the efforts of one, but by the efforts of many.
Kia Ū, Kia Oho, Kia Manawanui!