Haka Theatre Pathway for Rangatahi

New Partnership Launches Haka Theatre Pathway for Rangatahi 

A transformative new partnership between Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi and the Hawaiki TŪ Arts Foundation is set to open new doors for rangatahi passionate about haka theatre and Māori performing arts. 

This collaboration will establish a unique pathway for rangatahi from the acclaimed Autaia kaupapa into the newly developed Te Pou Hono Haka Theatre Leadership Programme, which is a summer school initiative. This will serve as a prerequisite for entry into Awanuiārangi’s Bachelor of Māori Performing Arts (BMPA) degree in February 2026. 

“This partnership is about nurturing the next generation of haka theatre leaders,” says Junior Tana, Head of School of Iwi Development at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi. “Through Te Pou Hono, we’re cultivating performers, storytellers, and kaupapa Māori leaders who will carry our narratives forward with pride and creativity.”

Hawaiki TU’s Autaia has already made a significant impact on rangatahi across Aotearoa, enhancing wellbeing, boosting engagement in kura, and contributing to improved NCEA outcomes. It also provides a vital support system for whānau and a unique platform for rangatahi to explore performing arts as a career pathway, both on and off stage.

Kura Te Ua, Artistic Director of Hawaiki TŪ and creator of the haka theatre form, says the partnership is a natural evolution of the kaupapa.  

“Autaia creates a space where rangatahi can express themselves creatively and culturally. This new pathway into Te Pou Hono and the BMPA degree is about recognising and growing that potential.”

The Te Pou Hono Haka Theatre Leadership Programme will include 200 study hours across four wānanga, a performance day, and self-directed learning. Tauira will: 

• Demonstrate fundamental haka theatre performance capabilities 
• Exhibit leadership within creative and cultural processes 
• Reflect confidently on their identity, whakapapa, and values 
• Develop collaborative theatre work rooted in kaupapa Māori 
• Be prepared and eligible to enter the BMPA degree 

The Bachelor of Māori Performing Arts (BMPA), offered in Tāmaki in 2026, is an enhanced version of Awanuiārangi’s existing Bachelor’s programme. It offers high-quality training for kaihaka aiming to work in teaching, cultural tourism, media, and Māori development. Supported by Kura Te Ua and the Hawaiki TŪ creative crew, the degree will provide a robust foundation for Māori performing arts tutor development and business initiatives. 

Enrolments for the Te Pou Hono Haka Theatre Leadership Programme are now open. Contact schools@autaia.nz for more information. 

*Autaia image photo credit: Te Rawhititroa Bosch