The Road to Huinga: Ngāi Tauira’s Journey to Te Huinga Tauira 2025

Ngāi Tauira Column, Shay McEwan (she/her)

Te Whānau-a-Kai, Ngāti Pāhauwera, Ngāti Porou.

For many student associations, preparing for a national conference is no small feat. It’s more than booking accommodation and transport, it’s about planning that goes into it months in advance, the fundraising, coordinating the team that will be taken to the event, making sure the right people supported are about to effectively represent their rōpū. In Te Wiki o Te reo Māori, Ngāi Tauira will be taking this journey as they begin their preparations for Te Huinga Tauira, the annual National Māori Students’ Conference.

Organised each year by Te Mana Akongā (TMA) - the National Māori Students’ Association, they bring together tertiary students from across the motu. As described on the TMA website, THH is:

“The annual National Māori Students’ Conference where tertiary students gather to discuss and debate topical issues, participate in cultural and sporting activities, and raise awareness about some of the issues that impact on Māori students at tertiary institutions, and within the wider community. Te Huinga Tauira is also an opportunity for Māori students to nurture and maintain their cultural identity, access social and support networks outside of their institutions, and participate in activities that enhance, and add value to, their experiences within the context of their learning.”

In order to organise the event, Hui Kaiarahi tuarua took place, the second hui in which most if not all executive members from each student association meet to discuss planning and more. This year Hui Kaiarahi tuarua was hosted by Te Tira Ahu Pae in Papaioea. After a full weekend of discussion and deliberation, it was confirmed that Te Huinga Tauira will be hosted by Te Waiora at Waikato University. With a location rich in history, the timing of the conference also means that those attending will get the chance to participate in Kīngitanga Day celebrations, adding another unique opportunity to the kaupapa.

Ngāi Tauira Voices on the Road to Huinga

Aria Ngarimu, co-tūmuaki of Ngāi Tauira, shared her excitement for the trip, noting the significance of this year’s conference after last year’s absence:

“With NT not going to Huinga last year, this will be an exciting opportunity for those who were unable to attend previous Huinga. I’m looking forward to the student development and  the opportunities for future pathways for all tauira.”

Aria also highlighted the importance of celebrating Kīngitanga Day with Te Waiora and tauira from across the country. She acknowledged that while the Kīngitanga may not be formally recognised by some iwi, it offers a valuable chance to learn about its history and significance.

Matagi Vitolio, Ngāi Tauira’s Āpiha Hauora, emphasised the human side of the journey, building relationships not only within Te Herenga Waka but also with other universities:

“It’s about connecting, building trust, and working together through challenges, games, and shared mahi. I want to make sure everyone’s wellbeing is looked after, that they’re keeping up with their studies, and that even those who aren’t selected to go still feel part of our kaupapa.”

Matagi also stressed the need to break down cliques and cycles of exclusion, creating a more inclusive culture within Ngāi Tauira. For him, the trip is not only about representation but also about recognising the responsibility and service that comes with being part of a rōpū Māori.

Ruby Stuart, Ngāi Tauira’s administrator, shared her anticipation for the social and learning aspects:

“I’m excited for the social aspect of it, meeting people, taking part in the different workshops, kaupapa, and wānanga. I think it’ll be an awesome opportunity to create bonds.”

At the same time, Ruby acknowledged the practical side of organising such a trip:

“I’m definitely a bit worried about the expenses and making sure everything we’ve booked is correct. It’s a lot to manage, but it’ll be worth it.”

Kaea Hudson, co-tūmuaki, perhaps captured the excitement best:

“I’m most excited for the group we’re taking, for a lot of them, it’s their first time going. This year’s TMA and the other rōpū are such a cool bunch!”

For Kaea, the novelty and fresh energy of the group will make this year’s Huinga a memorable one.

Looking Ahead

As the journey to Huinga continues, Ngāi Tauira’s focus is clear: to represent Te Herenga Waka with pride, to nurture relationships across the motu, and to ensure that the kaupapa of whanaungatanga, inclusivity, and service remain at the heart of everything they do.

Te Huinga Tauira is more than a conference, it’s a celebration of identity, connection, and collective responsibility. For Ngāi Tauira, the road ahead is not just about getting to Waikato, but about the growth, bonds, and shared memories they will carry with them long after the hui ends.