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Kōia te Mātauraka – Whānau Ora Navigator Attendance Services -

Te Tūhana (Timaru Catchment)
Preferably based in the Catchment area with regular travel within Waitaha.
Full time 2-year fixed term contract (ending December 2027)
Start date- negotiable, November/ December 2025 preferred.

Kōia te Mātauraka is an education specialist company jointly owned by seven rūnanga. We are seeking a Whānau Ora Navigator to work alongside ākonga, whānau, kura and communities to build pathways to full and equitable education opportunities and outcomes. Te Tūhana is the culturally responsive future-focussed framework Kōia te Mātauraka will implement in the attendance catchment to address these needs. Te Tūhana is a model responsive to the community it sits within; it seeks varied and effective methods to perpetuate long-term solutions that will be sustainable and empower a community to realise the potential of all ākonga. Designed around the central tenets of Te Whare Tapa Whā where each of the elements are in place, balanced and considered as part of a good future outcome.
Purpose:
The Whānau Ora Navigator will work in a small team that serves as a pivotal bridge between whānau, kura and the community. This role involves supporting whānau to implement long-term plans developed through Kōia te Mātauraka attendance services. The Navigator facilitates access to resources, provides tailored support and guidance, and upholds cultural values to enhance the wellbeing of whānau.
Plan Development and Implementation
Collaborate with whānau to review, refine, and implement the goals and strategies outlined in Whānau Plans. Ensure whānau achieve their aspirations by aligning actions with the outcomes identified. Guide whānau to actively participate in the development of sustainable pathways that reflect their long-term goals and cultural values.
Outcome Monitoring and Reporting
Track and document whānau progress toward achieving their plans’ outcomes, identifying barriers and successes. Provide detailed updates to the attendance manager, highlighting achievements and areas requiring additional support. Ensure plans are fully actioned within the contract period, focusing on measurable outcomes that align with Whānau Ora goals.
Connection to Resources
Identify and facilitate connections to community resources, services, and networks that will support whānau in achieving their long-term plans. Build and maintain strong relationships with local providers to ensure seamless referrals and service delivery. Equip whānau with tools, knowledge, and resources to sustain their independence beyond the contract term. Cultural Advocacy Uphold Te Ao Māori values in all interactions, ensuring cultural practices are central to the development and implementation of whānau plans.
Collaboration and Problem-Solving
Work closely with colleagues, external partners, and whānau to address challenges and ensure successful plan implementation. Provide feedback and insights to improve the effectiveness of Whānau Ora service delivery.
GENERAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
•Prioritize workload to ensure work of the greatest importance to the business is undertaken with urgency and to a high standard.
•Demonstrate excellent interpersonal communication skills.
•Responsibly manage all business resources within accountability levels.
•Undertake all duties and responsibilities outlined in this job description and all other duties as required by the business.
•Comply with all employment obligations.
SKILLS, EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION
•Experience in social work, community engagement, Whānau Ora service delivery within the community or attendance context.
•Strong understanding of Te Ao Māori and a commitment to incorporating Māori values into practice.
•Proven ability to achieve measurable outcomes within a defined timeframe.
•Strong communication and relationship-building skills, with a culturally sensitive approach.
•Excellent organisational and reporting skills to monitor and document progress effectively.
•Full driver’s license and ability to travel into the Timaru Catchment as needed.
• Stakeholder relationship management experience, community network building and outside agency engagement.
• An understanding of the role of te reo Māori me ōna tikanga in transformative change within a government structure.
• An ability to work with and be responsive to whānau, hapū and iwi- knowledge of Ngāi Tahu papatipu rūnanga structures and systems is beneficial.
• Familiarity with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the responsibilities that sit within education systems.
• A high-level understanding of current legislative strategic policy and expectations within education.
• Strong relationship and time management skills, the ability to meet deadlines in a complex environment and to report using established frameworks.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• An undergraduate qualification in a relevant field or suitable experience and professional development.
• The ability to pass a full New Zealand police check.
Application close 5pm 21st November 2025
Apply now – Contact koiatematauraka@ngaitahu.iwi.nz for more information. Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!

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Programme Manager Whakaora Te Waihora

Environment Canterbury

Lead a significant environmental programme in partnership with mana whenua

Drive action to achieve Te Waihora Co-Governance partners’ shared vision

Be a catalyst for the restoration and rejuvenation of Te Waihora

Te Waihora Co-Governance │ About the Partnership

 

Whakaora Te Waihora is the long-term ecological and cultural restoration programme of the Te Waihora Co-Governance Group. The members of the Te Waihora Co-Governance Group are Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, Environment Canterbury, Selwyn District Council, Christchurch City Council, and the Department of Conservation. Priorities and intended outcomes for the programme are set by these partners.

 

Kōrero mō te Tūranga | About the Role

 

As the Programme Manager, you will work closely with the Co-Governance partners, kaitiaki rūnanga, and community to deliver the Whakaora Te Waihora programme. In doing so, you will:
  • Build alignment across Co-Governance partners, mana whenua, and community to work towards the long-term vision of the programme.
  • Foster funding opportunities and assist with obtaining external funding for projects.
  • Ensure the effective delivery of programme projects.
The position will be managed by Environment Canterbury, with time spent working in the offices of Taumutu Rūnanga Ltd. and the Co-Governance partners.

 

Mōu │ About You

 

You will be a person with a passion for our environment and who likes to be challenged. To be successful in this role you will:
  • Have an ability to establish, and maintain, high-trust and high-integrity professional relationships.
  • Have an ability to work effectively with a wide range of a partners, and in a wide range of environments – from marae, to community, to local government.
  • Be a great team player.
  • Have strong networking, influencing and relationship building skills.
  • Have excellent organisational and management skills.

 

Mātau ā-Wheako | Experience 

 

Ideally you will have:
  • Excellent relationship management skills.
  • At least five years programme management experience, including programme/project planning, implementation, budgeting monitoring and reporting.
  • Understanding of Māori cultural values and/or experience working within a kaupapa Māori environment.
  • Experience working in a community setting or voluntary or related sector.
  • Familiarity with the relevant statutory and non-statutory plans relating to the management of Te Waihora.
  • Familiarity with the Te Waihora / Selwyn community is desirable.
  • Familiarity with ecological processes and indigenous biodiversity is desirable.
  • Knowledge of local government, policy settings, financial literacy, and well-developed collaborative influencing and negotiating skills.
  • A relevant tertiary qualification is desirable.

 

Ngā hua o te Mahi i te Kaunihera Taiao ki Waitaha | Working at Environment Canterbury 

 

Our mahi is underpinned by our values:
  • Kaitiakitanga (stewardship)
  • Pononga (integrity)
  • Manaakitanga (people first)
  • Whanaungatanga (collaboration)
  • Māiatanga (can do)
We understand and embrace a diverse workforce; this diversity will enable us to better serve our people, our community, and our greatest taonga, the environment. We value everyone’s contribution, diverse thinking, and skills.
We’re on a journey to become a treaty partner of excellence, including incorporating te ao Māori into our work. We offer supportive opportunities to develop capability in this area and encourage our people to use kaupapa Māori, mātauranga Māori, and te reo Māori in our daily work. We welcome you with an open heart & mind, wherever you are on your personal te ao Māori journey.

 

Ko ētahi atu kōrero | Additional Information

 

Applications close on Sunday, 9 November.  Applications will be reviewed as we receive them, and interviews may take place before the close date. We reserve the right to close advertising early.
Short-listed candidates will be required to complete an interview process, reference checks, and a criminal check. Further background checking will be required when relevant to the role.
We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace. If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply.

 

Me mahi tahi tātou – Together we can

 

Apply in Seek
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Kōia te Mātauraka – Attendance Manager Te Tūhana (Timaru Catchment)

Preferably based in Ōtautahi with regular travel into the catchment area
Full time 2-year fixed term contract (ending December 2027) Start date- negotiable, November 2025 preferred.
Kōia te Mātauraka is an education specialist company jointly owned by seven rūnanga. We are seeking an Attendance Manager to lead our attendance model Te Tūhana in the Timaru catchment. Te Tūhana is the culturally responsive future-focussed framework Kōia te Mātauraka will implement in the attendance catchment to address the needs of; ākonga, whānau, kura, kaiako and communities. Te Tūhana is a model responsive to the community it sits within; it seeks varied and effective methods to perpetuate long-term solutions that will be sustainable and empower a community to realise the potential of all ākonga. Designed around the central tenets of Te Whare Tapa Whā where each of the elements are in place, balanced and considered as part of a good future outcome.
This person will be responsible for leading a team that works alongside whānau and education organisations to meet the attendance needs of all ākonga.
We are looking for an individual with:
• Leadership in education and/or social work (youth work) and an understanding of appropriate systems management.
• Experience in building effective, adaptable and accountable teams to effect transformative change.
• Flexibility and the skills to manage a small independent team that is also integrated into a larger established and effective team structure.
• Confidence and competence to guide, mentor and lead Te Tūhana with educators and whānau alike.
• Stakeholder relationship management experience, community network building and outside agency engagement.
• An understanding of the role of te reo Māori me ōna tikanga in transformative change within a government structure.
• An ability to work with and be responsive to whānau, hapū and iwi- knowledge of Ngāi Tahu papatipu rūnanga structures and systems is beneficial.
• Familiarity with Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the responsibilities that sit within education systems.
• A high-level understanding of current legislative strategic policy and expectations within education.
• Strong relationship and time management skills, the ability to meet deadlines in a complex environment and to report using established frameworks.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• An undergraduate qualification in a relevant field.
• A full New Zealand drivers licence.
• The ability to pass a full New Zealand police check.
Mō mātou – About us
Kōia Te Mātauraka is a Charitable Company that has been established by seven Ngāi Tahu papatipu rūnaka in the
Mahaanui takiwā/Canterbury Region, those being; Te Rūnanga o Arowhenua Society Incorporated, Te Rūnanga o
Koukourārata Society Incorporated, Ōnuku Rūnanga Incorporated, Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke Incorporated, Te
Taumutu Rūnanga Limited, Te Rūnanga o Waihao Incorporated Society and Wairewa Rūnanga
Incorporated.
Apply now – Contact koiatematauraka@ngaitahu.iwi.nz for more information. Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai!
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Pou Arataki (Board Director), Te Hā o Te Ruahikihiki

Ko tātou te hā ora o Te Ruahikihiki

Taumutu Rūnanga is seeking a Pou Arataki (Director), Te Hā o Te Ruahikihiki to join the Board of Taumutu Rūnanga Limited. This key governance role offers a unique opportunity to preserve, promote, and enhance our cultural identity, history, and tikanga for the benefit of current and future generations
About the Role:
As Pou Arataki, Te Hā o Te Ruahikihiki, you will:
  • Lead initiatives to protect and promote Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki cultural identity, history, reo, and narratives.
  • Oversee strategies and programmes that strengthen tikanga, kawa, and mātauranga within the takiwā.
  • Provide governance oversight of cultural projects, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and our six pou framework.
  • Build and nurture relationships with whānau, archives, cultural organisations, and partners to uphold our identity.
  • Collaborate across pou to ensure cultural initiatives enhance overall wellbeing and whānau aspirations.
This role requires approximately 120 hours per year, including Board hui, pou responsibilities, and engagement with stakeholders (inclusive of preparation and follow up).
About You:
The ideal candidate will bring:
  • Whakapapa to Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki (essential).
  • Broad governance expertise and senior leadership experience.
  • Deep appreciation for Te Ao Māori and proven experience in cultural, heritage, or identity-based leadership.
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills to advocate for our history, tikanga, and kawa.
  • A commitment to the values of manaakitanga, whanaungatanga, kaitiakitanga, tikanga, and rangatiratanga.
Why Join Us?
  • Preserve Our Identity: Lead initiatives that maintain and enhance our unique cultural heritage.
  • Collaborate with Purpose: Work alongside a Pourewa (governance team) dedicated to our six pou (strategic priorities) advancing the interests of Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki.
  • Uphold Our Values: Be part of a kaupapa that advances our collective aspirations for future generations.
Term of Office: Initial 2-year term, with potential reappointment
Further information is available by emailing the Tumu Whakarae (CEO) of Taumutu Rūnanga Limited at cory.neale@ngaitahu.iwi.nz.

 

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Te Kuwaha - Graduate Internship - NIWA

Earth Sciences New Zealand (ESNZ), formed from the merger of NIWA and GNS Science, is a leading research organisation advancing sustainable use of New Zealand’s land, marine, freshwater, energy, and mineral resources. Through innovative science and technology, ESNZ enhances resilience to natural hazards and climate change, supports biodiversity and ecosystem stewardship, and drives economic growth across six mission areas: Geological Hazards, Weather and Climate Hazards, Energy, Land and Freshwater, Climate and Weather, and Oceans.
As part of our ongoing commitment to Māori environmental research and development, ESNZ is offering a graduate internship opportunity for recent Māori science graduates (BSc or MSc). Co-hosted by Te Kūwaha – ESNZ’s National Centre of Māori Environmental Research – and the AI and Deep Learning team, this internship is designed to provide hands-on experience at the intersection of science and advanced technology.
The specific project will be tailored to the aptitude and interests of the intern and will include some or all of the following:
-Internship Highlights Engage in advanced technology projects across climate science, freshwater and marine ecosystems, aquaculture, natural hazards, and environmental data systems.
-Contribute to cutting-edge research.
-Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and mentorship from experienced data scientists and Earth researchers.
-Gain exposure to AI-driven modelling, sensor technologies, and digital platforms used in environmental monitoring and forecasting.
-Opportunities to contribute to publications or open-source tools.
-Hands-on experience with ESNZ’s computing infrastructure, including cloud-based platforms, high-performance supercomputing clusters, and exploratory quantum computing environments.
What You’ll Do
Contribute to real-world active research projects that apply AI and deep learning to Earth science data. You’ll work alongside ESNZ’s researchers and data scientists on projects ranging from development and testing AI models for real-time hazard modelling or creating tools to analyse satellite imagery and remote sensing data, through to engaging with commercial partners for forecasting the impacts of environmental conditions or simulating atmospheric chemistry with quantum computing.
Location & Duration
Interns will preferably be based in Christchurch to benefit from in-person mentorship with leading Data Scientists in our AI and Deep Learning Team. However, placements in Wellington or Auckland could also be accommodated. Regardless of location, interns will have opportunities to contribute to collaborative projects across ESNZ’s national research network. This is a 12-month full-time fixed-term internship, starting in November 2025 (negotiable).
Who Should Apply
If you are a passionate Māori graduate looking to make a meaningful impact in environmental science and technology and are keen to explore a long-term career in research, we encourage you to apply. Proficiency in Python (and libraries like NumPy, Pandas, and Matplotlib), familiarity with machine learning frameworks (e.g., scikit-learn, TensorFlow, PyTorch), or experience with geospatial tools (e.g., QGIS, GDAL, rasterio) would be a bonus. However, we welcome applications from anyone with strong analytical thinking, curiosity about Earth systems, effective communication skills, and a genuine enthusiasm to learn.
Link to application here > Te Kuwaha – Graduate Internship – NIWA – Careers at Science New Zealand
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Expressions of Interest Sought – Cultural Mātauranga Monitoring: Tārerekautuku Lagoon

As Ngāi te Ruahikihiki whānau, we would like to invite you to submit an expression of interest to conduct Cultural Mātauranga Monitoring for the Tārerekautuku (Yarrs) Lagoon restoration project.

 

The Project
Located within the middle reaches of the Ararira, between Lincoln and Te Waihora, Tārerekautuku (Yarrs Lagoon) is a site of significant ecological and cultural value. It is now one of the largest contiguous freshwater wetland habitats in the region.
Tārerekautuku supports a high diversity of indigenous wetland plant species, providing habitat for nationally at-risk and locally uncommon plant, bird and lizard species. It also supports one of the largest remaining mānuka populations on the Canterbury Plains.
Selwyn District Council has an established restoration project at this site, which includes the eradication of invasive species such as willow and the reestablishment of native vegetation. To determine the progress of this restoration project, cultural monitors are required.
Your Role
  • You will be required on-site to conduct mātauranga biodiversity monitoring over 2-3 days in January and March 2026.
  • You will then be required to repeat the monitoring in subsequent years.
 
Compensation
Cultural Monitors will receive remuneration of $328 per day.
 
Experience
You do not necessarily need experience with the iPads used for cultural monitoring. Ideally, you will have:
  • Some knowledge of biodiversity and local terrestrial and aquatic species,
  • Previous experience in cultural monitoring, or
  • A keen interest and passion to learn.
 
Applications to be received by the close of business on Monday, 20 October 2025.
 
If you are interested in this position, please express your interest by emailing Lucretia Treadgold at Lucretia.Treadgold@ngaitahu.iwi.nz.
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