Whāia te Pae Tawhiti (WTPT)
"Whāia te pae tawhiti kia tata, ko te pae tata whakamaua kia tīna." Chase the big goals until they feel within reach, then grab hold of the ones in front of you and make them yours. Your journey to Waipapa Taumata Rau starts here.
This is a fully funded programme for Year 13 Māori students from outside Tāmaki Makaurau who are considering study at Waipapa Taumata Rau | University of Auckland. Travel, accommodation, meals, and programme activities are all covered by the University of Auckland.
Spend four days on campus, connect with other rangatahi from across Aotearoa, explore your study options, meet current tauira and staff, and experience what university life in Tāmaki Makaurau could look like for you.
Students selected for the programme will also attend Mānawa Mai, the University of Auckland Open Day.
Key Dates
Expressions of interest open: Wednesday 10 February 2027
Online Intro Hui: Thursday 6 May 2027
Expressions of interest close: 11.59pm Sunday 4 July 2027
Online Kaupapa Hui: Wednesday 21 July 2027
Online Whānau Hui: Wednesday 18 August 2027
On-Campus Programme: 26-29 August 2027*
*Dates are subject to change and will align with the University of Auckland's Manawa Mai Open Day.
Applying
To be considered for WTPT 2027, applicants must complete the Expression of Interest form and provide:
- A copy of their academic record
- A character reference from their school
What's included?
- Return travel to Auckland
- Accommodation at Waipapa Taumata Rau
- Meals and programme activities
- Support from Māori staff and student mentors
Why attend?
- Experience life as a student at Waipapa Taumata Rau
- Meet Māori support services, staff and current tauira
- Explore study pathways and future career opportunities
- Tour our accommodation and learn about living in Tāmaki Makaurau
- Attend Mānawa Mai, our Open Day
- Build connections with like-minded rangatahi from around Aotearoa
- Gain the insight, confidence and practical knowledge to make the move to university
What are you waiting for? Express your interest now!
Got more pātai?
Get in touch with our team at scet@auckland.ac.nz.