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Train to become a Taiwhirinaki
Te Ara Whakangungu is an introductory training programme for members of Te Ataarangi who are interested in supporting the delivery of our online programmes (Te Huanui and Te Kura Raunui) as a Taiwhirinaki (online breakout room facilitator).
Places are also available for iwi and community-based reo champions who are interested in working alongside Te Ataarangi to deliver Te Huanui within their own iwi, hapū or community.
Throughout this programme you will learn the structure of our online programmes, how our lessons are designed, and the technology required to confidently support ākonga learning in Zoom breakout rooms.
Programme Overview
Programme Information
Duration
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5 weeks
Course Dates
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31 August – 28 September 2026
Session Times
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Mondays
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7:00pm – 9:00pm (NZ Time)
Delivery
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Live online via Zoom
Cost
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Free
Facilitator
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Ruakere Hond
What you will learn
During this programme you'll gain an introduction to:
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The structure and design of Te Ataarangi online programmes
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How online sessions are facilitated
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Using Zoom breakout rooms confidently
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The role and responsibilities of a Taiwhirinaki
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Technology and digital tools used during online classes
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Strategies for supporting ākonga learning
Who Can Apply?
This programme is suitable for:
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Members of Te Ataarangi
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Pouako, Kaiwhakaako and Kaiāwhina
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Existing and aspiring Te Ataarangi facilitators
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Iwi and community reo champions wanting to partner with Te Ataarangi
Attendance Expectations
Attendance at each session is strongly encouraged.
Each week builds upon the previous session and introduces important skills required to become an effective Taiwhirinaki.
If you are unable to attend a session, recordings will be available to help you catch up.
Learning Platform
All course content is accessed through our Learning Management System (LMS/Whatamarau), where you will find:
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Zoom links
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Course resources
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Session recordings
Access will be provided shortly after registration. We encourage participants to familiarise themselves with the platform before the first session.
What you will need
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A laptop or desktop computer
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Reliable internet connection
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A Zoom account
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A willingness to learn, practise and support others
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Commitment to attending sessions and participating in the internship
Taitoko Internship
After successfully completing Te Ara Whakangungu, participants are invited to continue their development as a Taitoko.
The Taitoko stage is a practical internship where you'll begin applying your learning within real Te Ataarangi online classes alongside experienced facilitators.
Programme Overview
Duration
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Approximately 10–20 weeks
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Progress is based on readiness rather than a fixed timeframe
Commitment
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Approximately 3 hours per week
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Multiple class times available across our online programmes
Becoming a Taiwhirinaki
There is no fixed graduation date.
Each participant progresses at their own pace, with support from their Kaitiaki throughout the internship.
When your Kaitiaki is confident you are ready, you'll be invited to register your interest to work as a Taiwhirinaki within our Level One programmes.
Placement opportunities depend on learner enrolments for each intake.
Phase One – Building Confidence
Before entering live classes you'll continue developing your confidence with the technology and online systems used within Te Ataarangi.
You'll receive ongoing support until you are ready to participate in live akoranga.
Phase Two – Practical Internship
Once ready, you'll begin working alongside an experienced Pou Whakangungu (Kaitiaki). During this phase you'll:
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Observe experienced Taiwhirinaki
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Support real online learning sessions
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Practise facilitating breakout rooms
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Receive mentoring and feedback
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Reflect on your learning using a Puka Pūkete
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Develop confidence through guided practice