Toi Maruata: Certificate in Māori and Indigenous Art (Level 3)

Start your artistic journey in a supportive learning environment. This introductory programme enhances your knowledge of Māori art. 

We'll teach you a broad range of toi (art) techniques and skills through completing practical projects. You'll also learn about te ao Māori (the Māori world) and how this connects to your identity. 

With the help of our experienced kaiako, you can use this programme to:

• kick-start your tertiary studies
• develop a portfolio of work for entry into higher level arts programmes
• start a process of personal exploration.

Depending on your location, the following classes may be available: 

Toi Ataata (Visual Arts) 

Explore a range of visual art forms such as painting and sketching through to graphic design and print making to help you express the way you see the world. Through a variety of media and techniques, alongside personal kaupapa, toi ataata tauira (students) develop their own creative practice. 

Mau Rākau (Māori Martial Arts) 

Learn ancestral practices, values and protocols of the traditional Māori martial arts. Learn about te ao Māori (the Māori world) and tikanga (protocols) while developing a specialised skill set and preserving the rich culture and art of the warrior. 

Whakairo (Carving) 

Learn the history and techniques of one of the oldest toi Māori forms. Explore the history and tikanga (protocols) associated with the ancient art form of whakairo and learn the hands-on techniques used to complete practical projects. 

Ngā Mahi ā te Whare Pora (Weaving) 

Explore raranga with its fascinating history and creative application. You’ll learn about Māori patterns and designs and gain the technical skill needed to weave and work with different types of fibre. 

Māori Performing Arts 

Learn how to produce and perform at a professional level. Immerse yourself in te ao Māori (the Māori world) and get experience in Māori performing arts in an interactive, social and exciting setting. You’ll learn about everything from kapa haka to theatre and drama.

When you pass this programme, you'll get this qualification:

• New Zealand Certificate in Ngā Toi Level 3

You'll learn about:

• creative processes relating to toi
• time and project management skills
• self-reflection through journal work
• rangahau (research)
• whakapapa
• history, tikanga and cultural practices relating to Māori art.

Established in 1984, Te Wānanga o Aotearoa will provide holistic education opportunities of the highest quality for Māori, peoples of Aotearoa and the world.

Te Wānanga o Aotearoa is one of New Zealand's largest tertiary education providers. We offer a comprehensive range of certificate to degree level qualifications to New Zealanders of all ages and walks of life.

Operating from over 80 locations throughout the country, we provide a unique learning environment. We aim to overcome barriers to learning, and to meet the needs of all within the communities we serve.

Guided by Māori principles and values, we take great pride in this nurturing and inclusive learning environment, as well as the depth and diversity of our courses in small business, computing, social work, teaching, Māori performing arts and te reo Māori.