WHY CHOOSE TE HERU MĀPARA?
Te Heru Māpara was officially launched in August 2023, following its acquisition by Ngāti Maru. This transition enabled the organisation to deliver culturally grounded education, recognised qualifications, and employment pathways for communities across the Taranaki region.
Te Heru Māpara was established with a strong commitment to advancing education and training through locally led, values-based approaches. Its key goals are to:
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Improve educational outcomes across the region
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Make learning opportunities more accessible to learners of all ages
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Provide education that reflects who we are and how we learn best
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Build an inclusive platform that supports learners from a range of communities
Te Heru Māpara now operates delivery sites in Hāwera, Stratford, New Plymouth, and Waitara, and partners with marae, local centres and community hubs to ensure learning is accessible, locally delivered, and culturally responsive.
Learners are at the centre of all we do. Every programme is designed to uplift, empower, and reconnect learners with their identity and potential. Our approach also includes:
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Programmes that are free and whānau-friendly
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Pathways that link directly to employment or further education
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Supportive environments led by experienced educators, mentors, and community leaders
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A commitment to learner wellbeing through our Maru Ora Framework, which nurtures confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging
At Te Heru Māpara, we believe in growing not just learners—but future leaders.
WHAT WE OFFER
Our programmes are designed to place the learner at the centre, ensuring they are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to individual needs. Whether you're re-engaging with learning, looking to build foundational skills, or upskilling for new opportunities, we provide a supportive environment to help you grow, succeed, and take the next ste
KEYSTONE
LITERACY & NUMERACY
PROGRAMME
Our entry-level programme is designed to welcome learners who are ready to build their confidence and strengthen their reading, writing, and foundational skills. Whether you're starting fresh or returning to learning, this programme offers a supportive environment to help you grow, succeed, and prepare for your next steps.
LEVEL 1 & 2 FOUNDATIONS
The New Zealand Certificate in Foundation Skills (Levels 1 & 2) helps learners build confidence, essential skills, and readiness for further education or employment. Level 1 focuses on core literacy, numeracy, digital, and self-management skills in familiar settings. Level 2 builds on this with more independence, teamwork, and goal setting in broader contexts. Both programmes suit those re-engaging with learning or needing a supportive step into training or work. Graduates can move into higher-level study or entry-level jobs, gaining practical tools for lifelong learning and growth. These programmes are open entry with no formal prerequisites.
LEVEL 3 NZ CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS
Build practical leadership and business skills with our Level 3 programme. Covering team leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, each course equips you with the tools and confidence to lead effectively, work collaboratively, and make informed decisions in real-world settings. Ideal for emerging team leaders.
LEVEL 4 CERTIFICATE IN ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Explore a future in environmental management with this hands-on introductory programme, developed in collaboration with passionate environmentalists and mātauranga specialists connected to Taranaki Maunga. Gain practical experience in conservation, ecology, environmental law, pest control, and riparian planting, while building the skills needed for further study or employment. Perfect for those in Taranaki who are dedicated to caring for and restoring the natural environment.
LEVEL 4 CERTIFICATE IN BUSINESS (FIRST LINE MANAGEMENT)
Develop practical leadership and operational management skills through hands-on workshops and marae-based learning, grounded in the Taranaki business context. Learn to manage workflows, motivate teams, communicate effectively, and promote inclusive, ethical practices. This programme builds confidence and capability to lead, measure performance, and improve outcomes across a range of workplace settings
IN SCHOOL PROGRAMMES
Our in-school and alternative education programmes support ākonga aged 13–18 who are still enrolled in school but need additional support or a different learning environment to thrive. Delivered in partnership with local schools, these tailored programmes help ākonga stay engaged, complete their secondary education, and build clear pathways from education to employment. Te Heru Māpara provides a supportive, culturally grounded approach that ensures every learner has access to the guidance, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed and reach their full potential.
Employment Solutions and Cadetships
We support your journey into employment through personalised plans, job search support, and ongoing one-on-one guidance. Our dedicated team works with you to build confidence, prepare CVs, practice interviews, and connect with potential employers. Through our Cadetship Programme, rangatahi gain hands-on work experience while upskilling and earning qualifications that strengthen their career pathways. We also help build lasting connections with workplaces and provide continued support once you're employed, ensuring you're not only work-ready but set up for long-term success.
Join Us on the Path to Growth