"Ko Te Amorangi ki mua, ko te hapai o ki muri. Te tuturutanga mahi pono o te Maori mana motuhake".

 

 

Te Wananga Whare Tapere o Takitimu

 

A centre for excellence in the arts, Te Wananga Whare Tapere o Takitimu assist people of all backgrounds to achieve their potential and contribute positively to societal needs and changes with pride, confidence, and commitment.  It has established itself in one of the leading innovators in traditional Maori performing arts training.  Founded in 1983 by Tama Huata with the support of a dynamic team, Takitimu has been the pioneer in this emerging field.  It was the first to offer performing arts training through government employment programmes in 1984 and then went on to establish the first training modules in music, sound engineering, and arts administration.  In 1995 Takitimu was the first institution to offer a degree in Maori Performing Arts.

 

What makes Takitimu so innovative in this field is its unique learning environment incorporating a Kohanga Reo, Kura Kaupapa, Wharekura and Wananga based programmes.  It provides seamless education for people of all ages in an environment where the needs of children and adults are catered for.  Takitimu offers a Diploma in Maori Performing Arts.  Its programmes are practical, teaching methods are supportive of all learning styles and students work alongside professionals on theatre tours, music and sports events, exhibitions, displays and marae restoration projects.