Te Matarau Graduates Celebrate Success

Te Matarau Graduates Celebrate Success

Proud whānau, staff, iwi representatives and students packed into the NorthTec marae for an end of course celebration after completing their studies through the Te Matarau Education Trust.

The event saw more than 20 students from the Whangarei Te Matarau cohort graduate. Each was awarded a level 2 certificate in either elementary construction or tourism and hospitality, in front of nearly 100 family, friends and supporters.

NorthTec was represented by programme leaders Lisette Buckle and Taina Savage, and tutors Sharlene Nelson (hospitality) and Dan Croft (construction) were given special acknowledgement for their part in delivering the programmes.

Johnny Seve and Puawai Shortland, both Pastoral Support Kaimahi from Ngati Hau Health and Social Services, were thanked for the support and encouragement they provide to the students throughout Rawson Wright, of Te Uri o Hau, and Shirley Anne Brown, of Ngati Hau, represented the Te Matarau Education Trust. The Trust is a Te Tai Tokerau Hapu-Iwi initiative involving Ngati Hau, Te Uri o Hau, Ngātiwai, Ngati Rangi and Te Aupouri, working in partnership with NorthTec to provide trades training for Maori and Pasifika learners.

All students received a Whaia Te Matauranga Award recognising their achievements, as well as a taonga from Ngati Hau. The evening was capped off with a Kai Hakari (feast) and musical entertainment provided by Ben Ratima.

Johnny Seve said: "As kaimahi we have enjoyed working alongside students, tutors and whānau.

Seeing the personal growth of students from week to week as they navigate through the challenges of life and study has been a rewarding experience.

“Our core business is helping people, and we are committed to positive long-term change. Education is a key factor in this and we look forward to continuing our partnership with NorthTec."

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