Kaiapoi High School Kaiapoi High School

Level 2 Tikanga Māori

L2TIKM
Course Description Recommended Prior Learning

While this course has no formal prerequisites and is open to all learners, it is recommended that participants have completed a Level 1 Tikanga Māori course or have some prior understanding of basic Māori values, customs, and te reo Māori. This background will help support deeper engagement with the course content and enhance your learning experience.

This Level 2 course builds on the foundational knowledge gained in Level 1 and invites learners to deepen their understanding of tikanga Māori – the values, customs, and protocols that shape Māori life and identity. Designed for those who are ready to explore tikanga in greater depth, this course focuses on both theoretical knowledge and practical application across a range of cultural and contemporary settings.

Through interactive learning, kōrero, and hands-on experiences, students will engage with key kaupapa including:

  • Whakapapa (Genealogy):
    Discover the importance of whakapapa as the foundation of identity, belonging, and connection within te ao Māori.

  • Manaakitanga (Hospitality & Care):
    Explore the value of caring for others, showing respect, and fostering community wellbeing in both formal and everyday settings.

  • Kaitiakitanga (Environmental Guardianship):
    Learn how Māori principles guide relationships with the natural world and promote sustainable, responsible care of the environment.

  • Te Reo me ngā Tikanga (Language and Protocols):
    Build confidence in using te reo Māori while gaining a deeper understanding of cultural protocols in communication and social interaction.

This course encourages personal reflection, cultural engagement, and the practical application of tikanga in diverse contexts — from whānau and hapori to professional and educational environments. It’s ideal for those wanting to strengthen their connection to te ao Māori and confidently walk in both worlds.

Note: Students are unable to select Tikanga and Te Ao Haka, as these courses are taught concurrently in a combined class. Students will have a choice of mixing Tikanga and Te Ao Haka  Unit/Achievement Standards.

Course Overview

What is taught in courses varies from year to year. This course could include:
This course offers a deeper exploration of tikanga Māori, building on foundational knowledge and expanding learners’ understanding of cultural principles, history, and their relevance in today’s world. From traditional Māori society through to the impacts of colonisation, students will gain insight into the dynamic evolution of tikanga Māori as a living, breathing system of values and practice.

What the Course Includes:

Students will engage with a range of kaupapa, including:

Historical Context:
Explore the origins and development of tikanga Māori from pre-colonial times through to contemporary Aotearoa. Learn how significant historical events have shaped and transformed tikanga across generations.

Core Principles of Tikanga Māori:
Deepen your understanding of key cultural concepts such as mana, tapu, whanaungatanga, and kaitiakitanga. Examine how these principles guide social structures, relationships, and leadership within Māori communities.

Te Ao Hurihuri (The Changing World):
Reflect on the role of tikanga in a modern context — how it adapts and responds to current issues, environments, and the changing needs of iwi and hapori.

Kapa Haka and Cultural Expression:
Participate in an introductory kapa haka component that supports cultural confidence, expression, and storytelling through waiata and movement.
For students with previous kapa haka experience, there will be opportunities to support and mentor local primary school kapa haka groups — a chance to apply learning in a meaningful, community-based way.

This course is ideal for learners wanting to strengthen their cultural identity, apply tikanga in real-world settings, and contribute positively within their communities and workplaces.

Faculties:

Te Ao Māori


Assessment Information

All assessments in this course are assessed internally in a variety of modes throughout the year, each student is able to select the kaupapa they wish to study, and in turn the assessments they will be assessed on.

- Reports
- Multianswer selections
- Presentations
- Performance
- Participation and production

Pathway

Level 3 Tikanga Māori



			
					
					Contributions and Equipment/Stationery
										
There may be a marae noho during the year.

										

								


				





    

        
Disclaimer

        
Please note that courses will go ahead only if student numbers, staffing, and timetabling allow it.  Where a subject is oversubscribed, and there are insufficient numbers or resources to create an extra class, a ballot system may be applied.  
Costs
KHS aims to deliver educational courses over and above that which is funded by the Ministry, however parental contribution for the costs of trips and activities where participation is optional, and/or components not covered by the Government grant may be requested, and we appreciate the financial support our families make to the School.