Tuia Programme 2025

Applications for the Tuia Programme 2025 are now open.

What is Tuia?

Tuia is an intentional, long-term, intergenerational approach to develop and enhance the way in which rangatahi Māori contribute to communities throughout New Zealand.

Hear from 2024's rangatahi, Imogen Smith:


We look to build a network, learn local history for rangatahi to help support them in their contribution to their communities. This is done through mentoring with Mayor Glyn Lewers and developing relationships between a diverse range of rangatahi throughout the country that recognises, accepts and celebrates diversity.

Three pou make up the Tuia rangatahi experience:

  • Mentoring

  • Community contribution

  • Wānanga

You can find out more about the programme by reading the prospectus: Tuia 2025 Prospectus (PDF, 11.1MB)


Application process

To apply, please email topaz.river@qldc.govt.nz with a short letter or video about yourself explaining why you should be selected for the Tuia.

We're looking for rangatahi Māori (aged 18 to 25 years) who reside within the Queenstown Lakes District and, at some level, are actively contributing to the wellbeing of their community, or have an aspiration to do so.

Applications close in early 2025.


Past rangatahi

We have had the pleasure of working with previous rangatahi through the Tuia programme.

Read more about their experiences below: