Wai Ora (Kaupae 3)

A level 3 certificate in water resource management and conservation

With our growing population there is a need to ensure our water resources are protected for the benefit of future generations.  

He mauri tō te wai, he mana tō te wai- water sustains, heals and connects us to our environment. Be an ‘eco warrior’ and protect this precious resource with your whānau, hapū, iwi and local community.

Learn the foundations of water resource management and conservation with the Wai Ora (Kaupae 3) programme at Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi. This level 3 certificate will teach you how to protect and manage waterways using both modern science and mātauranga Māori.  Gain practical and cultural skills to understand the whakapapa of water and develop conservation strategies to support and manage water resources for the benefit of marae, hapū, and iwi. Be a kaitiaki and learn to protect wai for generations to come.

 
Why study Wai Ora (Kaupae 3)?

Bicultural approaches
Combination of mātauranga Māori with modern ecology and environmental knowledge with a focus on your local waterways.

Accessible learning
Nationwide delivery possible with a focus on your local area. Fees free with no tuition cost for learners over 17 years.

Blended learning model
Practical, hands-on learning in real environments along with online study and wānanga to connect theory to practice with supportive and culturally grounded teaching.

Pathway and progression
Graduates emerge with confidence to extend their learning journeys into other environmental or mātauranga Māori programmes including Wai Ora Kaupae 4.

 
What you’ll learn in Wai Ora (Kaupae 3)

• Introduction to marine and freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity
• Blending mātauranga Māori with modern environmental knowledge to protect and manage freshwater and marine ecosystems
• Māori perspectives on wai (water), kaitiakitanga and environmental wellbeing
• Practical skills for water monitoring, conservation and restorationUnderstanding environmental sustainability challenges
• Whakapapa mapping of local waterways—connect with your ancestral rivers, lakes, and moana
• Rights and responsibilities of marae, hapū, and iwi over bodies of water

 
Who should apply?

• Those passionate about taiao and mātauranga Māori
• School leavers or community members passionate about the environment seeking foundational study
• Hapū, iwi, and marae members
• Those wanting to contribute to local and regional water care initiatives
• Those considering further study in environmental or Māori studies