Master of Māori and Indigenous Business

Gain the advanced business expertise you need to help lead the growing Māori and Indigenous economy with this online, part-time masters degree. Enhance your career and accelerate your progression into senior management roles

The Master of Māori and Indigenous Business (MMAIBus) is an online, part-time masters degree designed to equip you with the dynamic business expertise to lead and manage a Māori or Indigenous business.

The burgeoning Māori economy needs skilled business graduates to drive sustainable local, national and international growth - and this highly practical degree will set you up to be at the forefront of Māori or Indigenous-led enterprises.

This three-year course is aimed at those who wish to advance their professional career and move into a senior leadership/management role. It's also ideal for anyone who wants to start their own entrepreneurial business.

The course is designed to maximise the impact of Māori on New Zealand's economic development and wellbeing.

You'll gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to develop executable business strategies and make better business decisions, enriched by an understanding of Māori cultural values and Indigenous approaches to business.

1. Academic admission criteria:

a) Bachelor's degree: To be admitted to the Master of Māori and Indigenous Business (MMAIBus), you must have completed a bachelor's degree (or equivalent qualification) with a grade average of at least 4.0 (B-minus) in 45 points above 200-level.

Students admitted with a bachelor's degree or equivalent will need to pass the 12 core papers (180 points), MIBUS511 to MIBUS534, normally completed over three years.

b) Business honours degree: You may also be admitted if you have a business honours degree with a grade average of at least 4.0 (B-minus) in 45 points at 500-level.

Students admitted with a business honours degree will need to pass 8 core papers (120 points), normally completed over two years. Choose four papers from MIBUS511 to MIBUS524, and then complete the four capstone papers (MIBUS531 to MIBUS534).

c) Postgraduate Diploma: Otherwise, you may be admitted if you have a Postgraduate Diploma in Māori and Indigenous Business, or a Postgraduate Diploma in Māori Development, with a grade average of at least 5.0 (B or higher).

Students admitted with a PGDip will need to pass 8 core papers (120 points), normally completed over two years. Choose four papers from MIBUS511 to MIBUS524, and then complete the four capstone papers (MIBUS531 to MIBUS534).

2. Prior work experience:

All applicants must have at least three years' management experience, to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

You may also be required to pass a test of academic aptitude and/or attend an interview to be formally accepted into the programme.

3. Alternative entry - Postgraduate Diploma in Māori and Indigenous Business:

Students who do not have a bachelor's degree, but do have at least five years' management experience, may instead enrol in the Postgraduate Diploma in Māori and Indigenous Business (PGDipMAIBus). You will need to pass 8 papers (120 points), MIBUS501 to MIBUS514, normally completed over two years.

On completion of this programme, those students who achieve a GPA of 5 (B grade) will be allowed to transition into the Masters programme and complete the remaining 8 papers, MIBUS521 to MIBUS534, over two years.

4. Exceptional circumstances:

Applicants who do not meet the criteria stated above may still be considered for admission in exceptional circumstances.

This decision will be made by the Academic Board based on the individual's academic merit and relevant experience, subject to the completion of any qualifying papers that are prescribed.

The University of Waikato has two campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga, both located in New Zealand's economic heartland. Our close-knit communities help international students settle in quickly, with the support and connections needed to succeed in their studies, and beyond.

What sets the University of Waikato apart is our commitment to real-world learning. The University has over 2,000 placements or industry-led projects per year. Strong partnerships across government, industry and community organisations provide students with wide career options and practical pathways into New Zealand's job market and beyond.

Established in 1964, we've built a reputation for research excellence and innovation. Consistently ranked among New Zealand's top universities, our international student services, peer mentoring programmes, and close-knit campus communities ensure students feel at home from day one.

Ready to turn your academic goals into career success? Your journey starts at the University of Waikato.

Top 10 reasons to study at Waikato

1. International Recognition: Ranked among the top 3 universities in New Zealand and 235th globally (QS World University Rankings 2025).
2. Subject Rankings: 11 subjects ranked in the top 350 globally (QS Subject Rankings 2025); ranked in the 151–175 band globally for Business & Economics (THE Subject Rankings 2025)—the highest for any NZ university.
3. Research Excellence: Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for research (QS World University Rankings 2025).
4. Triple Crown Accreditation: Waikato Management School is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA, placing it in the top 1% of business schools globally.
5. Academic Excellence: Learn fromaward-winning lecturers and researchers in a close-knit academic community known for innovative teaching and learning..
6. Flexible Degree Structure: Choose from over 100 subjects to shape a qualification and 200 programs including bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees, diplomas, and certificates —tailored to suit your strengths and career goals.
7. Industry Connections: Benefit from over 2,000 industry placements and projects annually through strong partnerships with government, business, and community organisations. Access career and employability services to graduate job-ready.
8. Student Support and Campus Life: Vibrant campuses in Hamilton and Tauranga offer modern facilities, easy access to nature, and dedicated student support—including international advisors, tutors, career services, and a buddy programme.
9. Scholarships and Bursaries: A range of scholarships available to support both domestic and international students.
10. Inclusive Student Community: Be part of a welcoming, diverse environment with 70+ clubs and 120+ societies covering academics, culture, sports, and more. Waikato is highly recommended by students, with excellent satisfaction ratings in the 2023 Student Barometer Survey.

Why choose Hamilton?

Hamilton is a vibrant, student-friendly city located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island. Surrounded by stunning nature, students can enjoy scenic parks, hiking trails, and the famous Hobbiton movie set nearby. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, multicultural community, and welcoming vibe making it a perfect place for students to live, study and explore.

Why choose Tauranga?

Tauranga is a beautiful coastal city in New Zealand's Bay of Plenty, offering students a perfect mix of urban living and outdoor adventure. With its stunning beaches, outdoor activities like hiking and water sports and a warm, sunny climate, it’s an ideal place for students looking to explore, learn and live in a welcoming environment.

Check out a range of accommodation options available on our campuses.