Why Ora

06/10/2026

Tiama-Deziah Hill - Whānau Quote

With a longstanding passion for the medical field, her aspirations have evolved over time from becoming a general practitioner to pursuing a career as an anaesthesiologist.

We look forward to seeing where her studies take her and wish her all the best for the future. 💙

05/10/2026

🌱We're Hiring | Kaiārahi, He Poutama Rangatahi (x2 Positions)
Are you passionate about supporting taiohi to achieve their aspirations?

Why Ora is looking for a motivated and relationship-focused Kaiārahi to join our He Poutama Rangatahi team. In this role, you'll walk alongside taiohi, helping them build confidence, overcome challenges, and navigate pathways into education, training, and employment.

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience working with taiohi and/or whānau
• Builds genuine relationships and empowers others to thrive
• Has mentoring or coaching experience
• Understands kaupapa Māori and tikanga Māori (Te Reo Māori preferred)
• Wants to make a positive impact for rangatahi across Taranaki

📍 New Plymouth-based | Taranaki-wide

To apply, send us your CV and a cover letter telling us a little about yourself and why this role interests you.

For a job description or more information, get in touch.

Olivia Ratana
Poutāiwhanga | Office Manager
📧 [email protected]

Nau mai, haere mai. Join us in empowering aspirations so our whānau can flourish. 🌿

05/10/2026

Today we recognise the teachers, kaiako, and educators who play an important role in the success of our taiohi.

Through our Rapuara Ako event, we saw firsthand the dedication of educators who are helping taiohi explore pathways and work towards their goals.

See below what some of our taiohi had to say about the educators who have inspired, encouraged, and supported them along their journey.

Thank you for all that you do. Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom. 🍎

01/10/2026

🌿 Mahuru Māori done and dusted! 🌿

This year, WhyOra took on an in-house Mahuru Māori wero, with each kaimahi leading a kēmu, quiz, or challenge as we competed for the top spot.

While Mahuru Māori has come to an end our reo journey continues as we look to strengthen te reo Māori in our tari and everyday lives.

Whāia te iti kahurangi ki te tūohu koe me he maunga teitei.

Seek the treasure you value most dearly; if you bow your head, let it be to a lofty mountain.

30/09/2026

Meet Ella Eason, a proud alumni of Waitara High School, who is now continuing her education journey at Otago University! 🎓

We’re excited to follow Ella’s haerenga as she works towards her future goals. Take a look below to learn more about what inspires her and the dreams she’s working hard to achieve!!

29/09/2026

📚 Thinking about study next year? Don't forget to sort your StudyLink application!

Whether you're heading into tertiary study for the first time or returning for another year, applying early can help make the transition a little smoother.

Here's a quick breakdown of the support available through StudyLink:

💰 Student Loan
For compulsory course fees, course-related costs (such as books and equipment), and day-to-day living expenses. This support will need to be repaid over time.

🏠 Student Allowance
A weekly payment to help with living costs, depending on your personal circumstances and whānau income.

🤝 Other Financial Assistance
StudyLink also manages additional support, such as the Accommodation Benefit and Disability Allowance, to help with specific costs while studying.

If you're considering study in 2027, now is a great time to start exploring your options and getting your application underway.

Need support? Reach out to your Kaiārahi. 💚

28/09/2026

⏰ Halls of Residence Applications Closing Soon!

Thinking about tertiary study next year? Applications for Halls of Residence are closing soon.

If you haven’t started your application yet, there’s still time. Getting in early can help secure your accommodation and make your transition into tertiary study a little less stressful.

Need support with your application or not sure where to start? Your Kaiārahi are here to help.

📞 Reach out to your Kaiārahi today and let's get those applications underway.

23/09/2026

🌱 We're Hiring | Kaiārahi, He Poutama Rangatahi l x2 POSITIONS 🌱

Are you passionate about walking alongside taiohi to achieve their aspirations?

At Why Ora, we're looking for a caring, motivated and relationship-focused Kaiārahi to join our He Poutama Rangatahi team.

This role is all about supporting taiohi to build confidence, overcome challenges, and create pathways into education, training and employment. You'll work alongside taiohi, whānau, employers, education providers and community organisations to help create positive and lasting outcomes.

We'd love to hear from you if you:
• Have experience working with taiohi and/or whānau
• Enjoy building genuine relationships and supporting others to thrive
• Are confident mentoring, coaching and empowering others
• Understand kaupapa Māori approaches and tikanga Māori - Proficiency in Te Reo Māori preferred.
• Want to make a real difference in the lives of rangatahi across Taranaki

📍 New Plymouth-based | Taranaki-wide
🕒 30 hours per week

To apply, send us your CV and a cover letter telling us a little about yourself and why this role interests you.

📧 For a Job Description or more information, get in touch with us.

Olivia Ratana
Poutāiwhanga | Office Manager
[email protected]

Nau mai, haere mai. Join us in empowering aspirations so our whānau can flourish. 🌿

Make a difference in the lives of taiohi by providing mentoring, support, and guidance that empowers them to reach their full potential.

22/09/2026

Kia ora e te whānau! 🌱

Whether you're currently studying or thinking about tertiary education in the future, Why Ora is here to tautoko you along the way.

From regular check-ins and scholarship support to guidance with study, applications, and future planning, our Kaiārahi can help you stay on track and achieve your aspirations.

Take a look at the support available below and reach out to your Kaiārahi if you'd like a kōrero.

21/09/2026

🏠 Halls of Residence applications are CLOSING SOON!

Thinking about studying next year and staying in a hall of residence? Now is the time to get your application started.

We’ve put together some helpful information to answer common questions about the halls of residence application process.

Remember, your Kaiārahi are here to support you every step of the way, from understanding the process to completing your application. Don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for help.

Start your application today! 🎓✨