Haka Theatre Pathway for Rangatahi

New Partnership Launches Haka Theatre Pathway for Rangatahi 

A transformative new partnership between Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi and Hawaiki TŪ through its academy Tūmata Kōkiri 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 Te Pou Hono programmes.

“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.”

Through Autaia, Hawaiki TU 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 pioneer of the haka theatre form, says the partnership is a natural evolution of the kaupapa.  The academy, Tūmata Kōkiri, provides the nurturing ground for this development, guiding tauira from performance to leadership.

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

The Programme will include study hours across wānanga, performance days, 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 

This 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 company, this pathway opportunity will provide a robust foundation for Māori performing arts tutor development and business initiatives. The Bachelor of Māori Performing Arts (BMPA) degree provides an extended pathway for tauira to develop further their understanding and ability to execute performance excellence with cultural depth.

Enrolments are open for the Te Pou Hono Haka Theatre Programme, in partnership with Hawaiki TU's academy, Tūmata Kōkiri. Contact info@hawaikitu.com for more information. 

*Autaia image photo credit: Te Rawhititroa Bosch