Waipā Māori youth with a passion for their culture and community are invited to apply for the Tuia Leadership Programme for 2026.
Tuia looks for rangatahi Māori with leadership potential and a commitment to their communities. The successful applicant will work with Waipā Mayor Mike Pettit - receiving mentorship, leadership insights, and sharing their voice on the issues that matter most to young people in the district.
“We’re keen to support Waipā rangatahi who want to help their communities thrive,” said Mayor Pettit. “Tuia is about growing their skills and making connections that last a lifetime.”
Tuia is part of the national Mayors Taskforce for Jobs, where mayors from across Aotearoa mentor rangatahi from their own district.
“I’m excited to work with someone who is open-minded, confident and eager to contribute,” said Pettit. “Strong communities are built when young people can step forward, be heard and shape the way ahead. Tuia gives them the space to shine.
“Building leadership capacity is and always will be important to me. I am looking forward to working with the successful candidate.”
The 2024 Waipā participant, Taane Te Aho, brought incredible commitment to Māori language and culture to the role. Studying Te Reo Māori and Māori and Indigenous Studies, he combined both fields by tutoring for Ngāti Koroki Kahukura wānanga and the University of Waikato.
Previous Waipā Tuia leaders include Paige Connon, Cassidy Temese, Sirtori Eade, Sophia Wairoa-Harrison and Maude Rewha.
Applications are now open for rangatahi aged 18–25 who:
- live in Waipā
- are actively involved in their community
- can attend monthly meetings
- are open-minded and willing to participate in discussions and workshops
- can commit to several multi-day wānanga (leadership forums) throughout the year
- are prepared to challenge and be challenged
Aspiring applicants can find out more and apply by Monday, January 26 at waipadc.govt.nz/tuia.
Or email Aby.Adams@waipadc.govt.nz and please include your name, contact details and age, a brief on your aspirations and why you’re applying for this programme, and a short CV focused on your schooling, community involvement, cultural or sporting activities.
