Pūhoro has officially launched in Tauranga, bringing our kaupapa to even more rangatahi Māori.

The launch began with a pōwhiri at Toi Ohomai’s Pomare Marae—a moment to honour the support of our partner schools, local iwi and hapū, and the many others who have made this expansion possible. The day was filled with connection, kōrero, and a shared excitement about what’s to come for the region.

Rangatahi from across Tauranga had their first taste of the Pūhoro experience through our Tukutuku session—an interactive activity that weaves together maths, logic, and traditional artistry. Part of our Term 1 Wānanga Māpūrau, this workshop gave tauira the chance to challenge themselves while connecting with mātauranga Māori in a creative way.

“We’re not just about science in a textbook,” says Principal Kaihautū, Riwai Pomana. “We’re bringing kaupapa Māori into every space—science, tech, uni, industry. That’s what makes Pūhoro different, and that’s why it works.”

The launch also marked a new step in our relationships with local tertiary providers and STEMM industry. These connections mean that rangatahi in Tauranga will be supported from secondary school all the way into tertiary study and meaningful careers.

“Seeing the community turn out and embrace the kaupapa has been powerful,” says Manahautū, Kemp Reweti. “It shows just how much appetite there is for this kind of support—together, we’re committed to improving STEMM outcomes for our rangatahi.”

This collective mahi is part of our wider commitment to grow a leading Māori STEMM community and to continue building pathways that empower rangatahi to dream big, lead with confidence, and thrive in the world of STEMM.

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