About this Role
As a Te Ako Matua, you’ll lead the cultural side of the Mana Ake service, weaving te reo Māori, tikanga, and mātauranga Māori into everyday support for tamariki.
You’ll work in schools alongside whānau, teachers, and support services to deliver kaupapa Māori wellbeing programmes that strengthen identity, resilience, wairua, and mana.
This is a hands-on role focused on building strong relationships, supporting tamariki in real situations, and helping schools create environments where young people can thrive.
To understand the tasks we’d be handling, see the attached job description document at the bottom of this page.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver kaupapa Māori wellbeing support to tamariki (1:1, group, and school-wide)
Weave te reo Māori, tikanga, and mātauranga Māori into all aspects of support
Work closely with schools, whānau, and community services
Design and deliver culturally grounded programmes that build resilience, wairua, and mana
Build strong, trusted relationships with tamariki and their support networks
Support access to other services where needed
Maintain accurate records and follow privacy and safety requirements
Contribute to the Mana Ake team and share knowledge with others
What We're Looking For
Strong grounding in te reo Māori, tikanga, and Te Ao Māori
Able to connect with tamariki and build trust quickly
Confident working with whānau, schools, and community services
Passionate about supporting tamariki wellbeing through a kaupapa Māori approach
Practical, calm, and able to adapt in real situations
Able to work independently and as part of a team
Relevant experience working with tamariki, whānau, or in education/health/social services
Desirable
Strong proficiency in te reo Māori
Experience delivering kaupapa Māori programmes or initiatives
Knowledge of Māori models of health and wellbeing
Experience working in schools or education settings
Established connections within the Wairoa community
Understanding of relevant legislation (e.g. child protection, privacy, health standards)
Personal Attributes
Genuine passion for supporting tamariki and strengthening their mana
Strong sense of identity in Te Ao Māori
Easy to connect with — builds trust quickly with tamariki and whānau
Calm, grounded, and confident in different environments
Leads by example and shares knowledge with others
Adaptable and able to work across different schools and situations
Positive attitude and strong work ethic
About Us
Kahungunu Executive ki Te Wairoa Charitable Trust delivers health, mental health, social services, and housing support to the Wairoa community, with a strong focus on helping whānau thrive.
Our Mana Ake service works directly in schools, supporting tamariki through early intervention and practical wellbeing support.
We are grounded in kaupapa Māori values and committed to delivering services that strengthen identity, build resilience, and make a real difference in our community.