Cross-stitch pattern with a gold cross, the words 'Whaine Taisia' in white text on a black background, and two small gold illustrations of shells.

Developing Indigenous Women Leaders

Group of young women posing outdoors near a body of water with hills in the background, some sitting and some standing, dressed casually and smiling.

Wahine Taiea is a kaupapa dedicated to supporting young women aged 18-25 in uncovering their inherent qualities of leadership. Through the power of whakapapa and pūrakau, our year-long programme offers a transformative journey, providing opportunities for young wahine to embrace the qualities of leadership handed down over generations.

A young woman with light brown hair in a bun, smiling, outdoors near a body of water with cloudy sky and trees in the background, wearing a tan blouse and black necklace.

Programme Information

Wahine Taiea is a 6-month leadership programme which consists of two wānanga, a research project and attending an indigenous conference.

Key Programme Dates (attendance is required for all below):

  • Wānanga 1: 5-7 Setember 2025

  • Wānanga 2: 4 October 2025

  • WIPCE Conference: 16–21 November 2025

  • Final Presentation: 24 October 2025

The wānanga will feature;

  • Engaging and interactive sessions combining presentations, group discussions and experiential activities

  • Guest speakers and mentors who are successful Indigenous women leaders

  • Opportunities for networking and collaboration with fellow participants

  • Cultural activities and ceremonies that honor Indigenous traditions

  • Ongoing support and mentoring beyond the programme’s completion

  • Follow-up evaluations to assess the long-term impact and success of the participants

Application Process

Applications are open to Ngāti Toa wahine aged 18-25. The process will open with Expressions of Interest, from there our Paewhiri (panel) will evaluate and select a group of successful applicants to attend interviews. Once interviews have concluded the Paewhiri will then select our final Tira (group).

Some things to consider;

  • Spaces for this cohort are limited.

  • In-person wānanga attendance - this programme will require in-person attendance at the wānanga. While participants can live anywhere across Aotearoa, you will be required to attend wānanga in-person in Porirua.

If you are interested and ready to commit, please apply using the link below:

Wāhine Taiea 2025 EOI Form

  • Expressions of Interest open Friday 1 August and will be open until 11:59pm - Friday 15 August.

    If you are interested and ready to commit, please apply using the link above.

  • Our paewhiri will go through each expression of interest and if shortlisted you will be contacted to attend an online or in-person interview.

  • Our successful applicants will be contacted directly by Friday 15 August.

If you have any queries or pātai, please reach out to us at wahinetaiea@ngatitoa.iwi.nz