Statistics New Zealand is delighted to announce Kirikowhai Mikaere as the recipient of the 2002 Te Tari Tatau
Scholarship. The annual scholarship, which is awarded for tertiary study, preferably in mathematics or statistics, is
open to all Mäori residents. It is valued at $3,500 per annum for up to three years.
"The high calibre of the applicants always makes it a difficult task to select a scholar," said Brian Pink, Government
Statistician. "I was impressed by the overall talent and abilities of all the applicants."
Kirikowhai is of Te Arawa, Tuhourangi and Ngäti Whakaue descent. She is in her second year at Victoria University and is
majoring in maths and Mäori business studies. Kirikowhai is fluent in te reo Mäori and has a full immersion educational
background, progressing through köhanga reo and kura kaupapa.
The scholarship programme seeks to increase the number of Mäori qualified in statistics and also to increase the number
of statistically qualified Mäori employed in Statistics New Zealand. Paid vacation work is also available to the
recipient, who is expected to spend a minimum of six weeks per year working at Statistics New Zealand.
Brian Pink
Government Statistician
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