Whai Pūkenga
Supporting Ākonga to Take the Next Step in Their Leadership and Learning Journey
Whai Pūkenga is a supportive programme designed to help ākonga at all stages of their journey — whether you’re just starting to upskill, working toward a formal qualification, or preparing for higher-level study.
Whether you’re looking to build confidence, grow your skills on the job, or take on a new challenge like a diploma, degree or postgraduate study — we’re here to awhi you every step of the way.
Our aim is to help you move forward in a way that works for you, while staying grounded in your whānau, hapū and community aspirations.
Whai Pūkenga is proudly delivered by the WYAT in partnership with Te Puni Kōkiri, through support from the Māori Development Fund.
⚠️ Please note: The Whai Pūkenga programme is currently full.
We are not accepting new referrals at this time, but please feel free to get in touch to express your interest or go on our waiting list.
What We Offer
Through Whai Pūkenga, we provide a kaupapa Māori approach to career and educational progression that includes:
- Study Support – guidance navigating enrolment processes and education pathways.
- Mentoring – connection to experienced mentors who can tautoko your goals.
- Cultural Strengthening – grounding in te ao Māori and collective advancement.
- Workplace Alignment – support to work with your employer or organisation to align study goals with your mahi.
- Time and Space – we help you prioritise and structure your learning journey in a way that fits your lifestyle and responsibilities.
Who It’s For
Whai Pūkenga is open to ākonga:
- Working in roles with leadership potential
- Considering postgraduate study or professional development
- Looking to grow their capability to uplift their whānau, workplace or community
This kaupapa is especially suited to those who want to study while they work, and who value both academic achievement and cultural grounding.
Why It Matters
We know that for many of our whānau, the biggest barriers to further study aren’t just financial — they’re also about time, confidence, and knowing how to navigate the system. Whai Pūkenga removes those barriers by wrapping support around the learner in a way that honours their identity, their aspirations, and their existing strengths.
Keen to Learn More?
If you’re interested in joining a future intake or want to kōrero about how Whai Pūkenga could support someone in your team, we’d love to hear from you.
- Phone: (06) 838 3886
- Email: pukenga@wyat.co.nz
- Visit: 86 Marine Parade, Wairoa