Tui Marsh (Nga Puhi/Ngati Porou) Te Tai Tokerau
Contact: (025 714 091) tuim@nzqa.govt.nz

Congratulations to all students and providers who successfully completed training in 2001.

As you celebrate the achievements of another year, providers need to be mindful of the challenges ahead in 2002. The TEAC reports are a must read for all providers, Māori PTEs need to consider where you may best fit in to the new tertiary environment and plan accordingly. You also need to ensure you have sound management systems in place and ensure these are well understood and applied by all staff.

Bernie Clarke (Nga Puhi) Tamaki Makau Rau
Contact: (025 714 079) berniec@nzqa.govt.nz

Māori providers in Tamaki makau rau implemented the Self Evaluation Work Book (SEW book) last year to prepare for audit in 2002. Some have already been audited, others are scheduled for audit in the new year. Initially, many providers found the self-evaluation process daunting, but those using the SEW book have found it to be an effective tool for checking their systems.

Providers can access the SEW book by emailing for Self-Evaluation Workbook requests. Ma te atua koutou e manaaki.

Hinemaua Rikirangi-Thomas (Ngati Ranginui, Ngati Hako) Waikato/Rotorua/ Tauranga
Contact: (025 714 081) hinemaut@nzqa.govt.nz

2001 was busy and rewarding as providers engaged in the self-evaluation process. Many have asked, "how are others are finding it?" In a nutshell, the response is, "hoha but worthwhile". This is particularly so for those who have implemented their updated or new processes and are already reaping the benefits. A quality management system is not just about producing a 'flash' document - a quality management system lives. Tihei mauri ora!

Congratulations to all for the hard work to date. Noho ora mai i runga i te rangimarie.

Lhi Te Iwimate (Ngati Kahungunu, Ngati Tuwharetoa, Te Arawa, Tainui) Hawkes Bay/Wairarapa
Contact: (025 714 030) lhitei@nzqa.govt.nz

Productivity, performance and perseverance best sum up 2001. Processes have been reviewed, strategies set in place and monitoring systems implemented.

Encouraging providers to document actual practices has been a big focus. Clarity of information and acknowledgement that Māori models work and are acceptable has shifted the providers towards meeting the New Zealand Qualifications Authority requirements. I look forward to a busy 2002, a year where partnerships with providers are cemented with tikanga as its foundation.

Faye MacMillan (Ngati Porou/Ngati Kahungnunu/Whakatohea) Gisborne/Opotiki/Whakatane/Kawerau/Taupo
Contact: (025 714 043) fayem@nzqa.govt.nz

While my region is spread out, I do my best to service each provider on request. Phone calls and emails are keeping the working relationship strong between local Māori providers and NZQA. I am heartened to see providers both in the East Coast and Opotiki working together to share resources and training.

I'm a firm believer in making the most of each other's strengths some local providers have gone through the audit process and are finding the post-audit period challenging. Most see it as another stepping stone or opportunity to improve the quality of their PTEs. I continue to encourage those Māori PTEs who are making the necessary changes because their presence in the education arena is essential.

Aaron Te Aramakutu (Ngati Kauwhata/Ngati Porou) Whanganui/Taranaki/Manawatu/Horowhenua
Contact: (025 714 061) aaronta@nzqa.govt.nz

A number of local Māori providers reviewed their systems and processes last year as a result of preparing for audit. They put aside time to reconsider their aims and objectives and how they are set up to meet the current and future demands of their communities.

These providers are focusing on staff development, including both internal and external training. For some Māori providers this review process has been rewarding for others, it has been an awakening. I commend you all and continue to wish you well in your endeavors to deliver quality education and training.

Leigh Milmine (Kai Tahu) Te Wai Pounamu
Contact: (025 714 056) leighm@nzqa.govt.nz

Te Wai Pounamu is abuzz with providers at various stages of self-evaluation. The majority of providers are implementing action plans on a wide range of ideas and changes identified through the process. Although it has been difficult for providers to make time in their busy schedules, the SEW process has been beneficial to the growth of their organisations.

Keep the awesome work flowing, and have a great new year. Kia kaha koutou.

Contact national co-ordinator Wendy Rapana for further information on telephone 04 802 3093 or email wendyr@nzqa.govt.nz