Te Mataora Māori and Pasifika Trades Training

Kia ora, Kia orana, Malo e lelei, Bula Vinaka, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Talofa lava, Malo ni, Greetings to all.


Make a start on your trades career with the support of Te Mataora – Māori and Pasifika Trades Training (MPTT) 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 16 – 40 enrolled and accepted into a Te Mataora-supported qualification at UCOL. Places are limited, so we welcome your application.

Kei te reri ahau ki tea ko? Am I ready to study?

This checklist will help you to start preparing for your 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 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 for 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 staff?

What is expected of you if your Te Mataora application is successful

Any ākonga selected for Te Mataora is expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to both studying and progressing your career. This means you commit to:

  • Attending class and doing the mahi

  • Passing the programme

  • Attending and completing any work-readiness programmes

  • Keeping in contact with your key Te Mataora kaimahi (staff)

Please keep UCOL up-to-date with your contact details and any changes of circumstances, e.g., phone number changes, withdrawals, etc.

Tips for applying

Have a kōrero with your friends and whānau about the opportunity

Complete both our UCOL Enrolment form and UCOL Te Mataora Application form, and return them to one of our Information Centres or email them to enquiry@ucol.ac.nz. If you need help, call us on 0800 GO UCOL. If you’d like more information, email mptt@ucol.ac.nz.

Next steps

Our Te Mataora Coordinator will be in touch to arrange a meeting to discuss your application.

Please be prepared to discuss your answers to the above checklist with our Te Mataora Coordinator.

You will find out the result of your application.

Meet our Te Mataora Māori Pasifika Trades Training Coordinator.

Nate Ferrier - Kāi Tahu, Kāti Māmoe, Waitaha, Rapuwai, Kaiārahi.