Inaugural scholarship launched, Taku Taunga

We’re proud to bring back the Taku Taunga Property & Business Scholarship for its second year! This scholarship is part of our commitment to empowering Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei ākonga to excel in property and business. It’s a product of our unique partnership with industry leaders Precinct Properties, aimed at developing iwi talent and leadership in these key fields.

We are proud to launch our Taku Taunga Property & Business Scholarship. Aimed at growing the capability within the iwi in the property and business fields, Taku Taunga is an outcome of our joint venture partnership with property industry leaders Precinct Properties.

About Taku Taunga?

The name Taku Taunga means "my anchorage" and was gifted by Ropata Paora, one of our reo experts. It reflects the idea of staying grounded in the wisdom and strength of our tūpuna, even as you take on new challenges in Te Ao Pakihi.

This scholarship offers more than financial support. It’s an opportunity to learn, grow, and give back to your iwi as you carve out your path in property or business.

Key Details

• Scholarship value: $10,000 per year, for up to three years
• Extra opportunity: Hands-on experience through summer internships with Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa or Precinct Properties
• Applications open: Monday, 20 January 2025
• Applications close: Monday, 10 February 2025

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, you must:

• Be a registered member of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
• Be studying (or planning to study) a property or business-related tertiary qualification

How to Apply

Applying is simple! Complete your application online by 5 PM, Monday, 10 February 2025.

As part of your application, you’ll need to:

1. Share your academic progress: Upload your most recent academic transcript
2. Confirm your enrolment: Provide proof of enrolment with course details
3. Give us your bank details: Upload a deposit slip or bank statement
4. Show us your vision: Write a short essay (up to 500 words) about how your future career aligns with the values, traditions, and sustainable development goals of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed by a panel from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and Precinct Properties. We’re looking for students who demonstrate:

• Academic achievement
• A clear vision for their study and career
• Past or planned involvement in Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei initiatives

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview.

What’s Expected of Scholarship Recipients?

If you’re selected, you’ll need to:

• Pass all your papers each year
• Notify us of any changes that could affect your scholarship, like deferring study or taking a leave of absence

Key Dates

• 20 January 2025: Applications open
• 10 February 2025: Applications close
• 17 February 2025: Interviews
• 24 February 2025: Scholarship awarded

If you require any assistance please email [email protected]