Course Overview
Step into a learning experience that brings together mātauranga Māori, environmental sustainability, and traditional food systems. The Mahinga Kai course empowers learners to reconnect with the whenua, waterways, and cultural practices that have sustained communities for generations.
Designed for adult learners, rangatahi, whānau, and community members, this hands-on programme explores the principles of kai sovereignty, environmental stewardship, and cultural wellbeing through practical, kaupapa Māori-based learning.
You'll gain valuable knowledge of traditional food growing and harvesting practices, sustainable resource management, and the interconnected relationship between people and the natural world. Through immersive experiences and shared learning, you'll build skills that can be applied in your home, workplace, and community while strengthening your connection to culture, identity, and place.
Whether you're looking to deepen your connection to te ao Māori, strengthen your environmental knowledge, support community food resilience, or learn practical skills grounded in tikanga and sustainability, the Mahinga Kai Programme offers a meaningful pathway for personal and collective growth.
Upon successfully completing the requirements you'll receive the award of:
- New Zealand Certificate in Māori Food Production, Harvest and Management (Level 3) | Mahinga Kai - Te Hoata (Kaupae 3)
| Locations | Rotorua, Whakatāne |
|---|---|
| Next intake | Aug 2026 View more details |
| Study options |
44 weeks part-time |
| Total credits | 120 |
| StudyLink assistance | Available |
| Indicative Fees | No tuition fee for domestic students View full fees information |
| Eligibility | View entry criteria |
To see the information for international students change your location using the button at the top right of the screen.
Career Opportunities
- Horticultural pathways
Topic Overview
- Principles of mahinga kai and traditional Māori food systems
- Sustainable harvesting and environmental stewardship practices
- The importance of kai sovereignty and local food resilience
- Māori perspectives on caring for whenua and waterways
- Practical skills for growing, gathering, preparing, and sharing kai
- Cultural knowledge that supports intergenerational learning and community wellbeing
Course Fees
| Indicative Fees * | No tuition fee for domestic students |
|---|
Your final fee may vary if:
- you have a choice of topics/papers to study
- the qualification excludes GST
- there are extra course materials to purchase
- student levies apply
We’ll let you know if any of these apply to you.
* Important fee information, and hints and tips
Fee Help
Are you Eligible for Free Fees?
There are several ways to take advantage of free study at Toi Ohomai. Find out how on our Fees Free FAQ page.
Student Loans and Allowances
This course meets the requirements for student allowance and student loan applications through StudyLink.
- A student loan helps to pay for your course fees (the compulsory fees), study materials e.g. books, equipment, and living costs. You'll have to pay this money back.
- A student allowance is a weekly payment that can help with your living expenses while you're studying. You don't have to pay the money back.
Find out more and apply at studylink.govt.nz
Scholarships
Scholarships are one way you might be able to get some financial help. Any scholarships specifically related to this course are shown below, otherwise check out the full list of scholarships promoted by Toi Ohomai.
Course Entry Information
Entry Criteria
- Applicants for whom English or te reo Māori is not a first language must provide evidence they have the necessary Engish language proficiency required for the course
- If the delegated authority at the campus/site is satisfied that the applicant has the capacity to complete the requirements of the course
- Applicant must have the physical ability to undertake practical tasks.
Standard Entry Criteria
Admission, entry, selection, and enrolment into programmes will be in accordance with the Academic Regulations and/or, where approved, specific programme regulations.
English Language Requirements
Level 3 certificate IELTS General or Academic score of 5 with no band score lower than 5 or completed New Zealand Certificate in English Language Level 3 with an endorsement of either General, Workplace or Academic, or meets a relevant English Proficiency Outcome as outlined by NZQA.
Course Locations and Intake Information
| Location | Campus | Start Date | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rotorua | Mokoia Campus | 10 Aug 2026 | |
| Whakatāne | Whakatāne Campus | 10 Aug 2026 |
Course Unavailable in Your Location?
Register your interest and we'll be in touch with available options.
