Te Takawai: A Unique Māori Perspective on Christian Studies 

Te Takawai is the NZQA Level 5 Diploma in Christian Studies. It is a collaboration between St Johns Theological College and the Te Takawai network of four Hui Amorangi (Te Hui Amorangi ki Te Tairāwhiti, Te Hui Amorangi ki Te Manawa o Te Wheke, Te Hui Amorangi ki Te Waipounamu and Te Hui Amorangi ki Te Upoko o Te Ika).

Te Takawai is more than just Christian education. It builds on the fundamentals of Christian Studies by weaving together Mātauranga Mihinare (Māori Anglican traditions), Mātauranga Māori, and moana Pasifika knowledges. 

The blend of traditional theological knowledge and Mihinare wisdom helps the Church, and its people stay connected to 200 years of history and whakapapa through theology teaching.

Students learn the Anglican Church’s doctrine and spiritual practices as they have been expressed within Māori culture.

 

Programme subjects include:

• Te Whakapono (the Church’s Story)
• Ihoatua (Doing Theology)
• Tikanga Karakia (Leading Liturgy)
• Te Hāhi Mihinare (understanding what being Anglican means)

The Diploma is taught across the Hui Amorangi – the episcopal units of Te Pīhopatanga o Aotearoa and at St Johns Theological College, enabling students to be formed and trained within the context of their own whenua.
 

Classes are held across five locations:

• Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) 
• Rotorua 
• Tūranga Nui a Kiwa (Gisborne) 
• Te Papaioea (Palmerston North) 
• Ōtautahi (Christchurch)

While knowing te reo Māori is not required, the courses’ content covers Māori cultural heritage and context, so some familiarity with Māori language and culture would be helpful. 

Delivered over 2 years, students study on a part-time basis for a total of 120 credits. The diploma is delivered through online lectures, Zoom-based interactive sessions, and immersive regional wānanga.

 

Why Students Choose Te Takawai:

• A nationally recognised Level 5 NZQA qualification – a strong foundation for ministry or community work (St Johns Theological College).

• Flexible, accessible, and supportive study modes with both online and in-person learning available across major centres.

• Education rooted in both Christian scripture and Māori spiritual traditions, shaping an indigenous Anglicanism admired internationally.