Whitireia and WelTec Celebrate Rising Māori and Pacific Achievement

Whitireia and WelTec are celebrating a significant rise in educational success for Māori and Pacific learners, according to the latest Educational Performance Indicator (EPI) results. Reported by Waatea News on 8 August 2026, the data highlights marked improvements in both course and qualification completion rates across the institutions, signaling a positive shift in tertiary outcomes for Indigenous ākonga. The institutions attribute these gains to a sustained investment in culturally responsive teaching practices and strengthened pastoral care. By embedding te ao Māori within their teaching frameworks and learner support systems, Whitireia and WelTec aim to create environments where ākonga feel supported to overcome traditional barriers to academic achievement. The providers noted that these outcomes are the result of the dedicated work of kaimahi and the maintenance of strong relationships with mana whenua, iwi, and various community organisations. Beyond the classroom, the success of these learners is expected to have a ripple effect across Aotearoa. According to the report, Māori tertiary success contributes to improved whānau outcomes and helps build a skilled workforce capable of supporting hapū and iwi. This is particularly vital as New Zealand faces ongoing workforce shortages in critical sectors such as healthcare, construction, engineering, and social services—all areas where Whitireia and WelTec provide vocational pathways. As the vocational education sector continues to evolve, these results serve as evidence that tailored, culturally grounded support can bridge longstanding achievement gaps. For Māori and Pacific communities, the improved EPI results represent more than just statistics; they reflect growing opportunities for ākonga to gain qualifications that empower their families and contribute to the economic future of their communities.