Tama Baker

For Tama, the Manaaki Tāpoi course was a once in a lifetime opportunity. He enjoyed it so much in 2016 that he is completing the second year of the programme in 2017. “I learnt more about the Maori culture, including all about my ancestors and the old places used for ceremonies and living. The highlights for me were meeting people from the marae where we stayed (some were my cousins!) and being in the outdoors.”

Tama says the activities were really fun and interesting and the tutors were very friendly and approachable. “I learnt to do lots of things, such as weaving and cooking. It was great cooking kaimoana on an open fire – the food tasted like the sea!”

Tama isn’t sure exactly what he wants to do in the future, but his plans may include training as a builder or becoming a Maori tour guide.