Previous Sir Āpirana Ngata Memorial Scholarship recipient Eloise Matete is urging other Northlanders to apply for the scholarships after it helped her towards a career in midwifery. Photo / NZME
Previous Sir Āpirana Ngata Memorial Scholarship recipient Eloise Matete is urging other Northlanders to apply for the scholarships after it helped her towards a career in midwifery. Photo / NZME
Tai Tokerau Māori studying in tertiary education can apply for a slice of funds from a trust named after one of Māoridom, and New Zealand’s, most honoured figures – Sir Āpirana Ngata.
The Sir Āpirana Ngata Memorial Scholarship is open for applications and a previous Far North scholarship recipient isurging Northlanders to apply, after it helped launched her on the path to a career as a midwife.
Eloise Matete (Ngāpuhi, Te Rarawa, Ngāti Porou), a final-year Bachelor of Health Science (Midwifery) student, said the scholarship has eased financial pressure while she balances study, placements and raising her whānau.
Driven by a desire to support Māori māmā (mothers) and whānau in spaces that feel safe and familiar, Matete is committed to kaupapa Māori maternity care and addressing inequities within the health system.
“Culturally grounded care is not an add-on; it’s a vital foundation for the wellbeing of our whānau,” Matete said.
“This scholarship has helped me stay focused on my studies and on the bigger purpose behind my mahi [work].”
She credits her tīpuna (ancestors) and whānau for inspiring her journey and sees her future role as a way of honouring those who came before her, while helping to build a more equitable health system for those who come next.
When asked what drives her, the answer is simple: whānau.
Now in her final year at AUT University in Auckland, Matete balances the demands of study, placements and motherhood.
Northland midwifery student Eloise Matete, pictured here checking a client, credits her Sir Āpirana Ngata Memorial Scholarship as a big help in her studies.
“It’s a challenge with children – I do miss out on a lot. But it’s worth it. My kids see me studying and it’s role-modelling for them.”
Growing up in Ōmāpere and Kaikohe, Matete was inspired by her aunties – both midwives – and by her own experiences as a mother, which sparked her passion for health and caring for whānau.
“It’s that combination of science and looking after Māori māmā and whānau through advocacy and aroha [love]. That excites me.”
Matete’s journey has brought her full circle, returning to her rohe (district) and familiar whenua (land). This has given her the chance to support whānau in spaces that feel like home. Through her placements across rural Māori communities, she’s had the opportunity and privilege to work closely with whānau during some of life’s most significant and precious moments.
She’s clear about the impact she hopes to make: “Helping Māori whānau navigate a mainstream health system that wasn’t designed for them and providing care through a Te ao Māori lens – making sure whānau can make decisions for themselves, in spaces that feel safe and familiar. I’ve been inspired to believe that kaupapa Māori maternity care should be something we see every day, not something we have to negotiate for. Culturally grounded care is not an add-on; it is a vital foundation for the wellbeing of our whānau.”
The support of a scholarship has eased financial pressures, allowing her to focus on her studies and placements. “I’m very grateful. My great-grandfather served in the Māori Battalion; his name was Karena Kahi Stephens. He paved the way for opportunities like this scholarship.”
Linking tīpuna to tauira (students), the Sir Āpirana Ngata Scholarships reflect the dedication and honour of Māori veterans by supporting their mokopuna (grandchildren) today. Currently open for applications, the scholarships provide funding for tauira Māori pursuing tertiary education. Across vocational and academic pathways, recipients consistently show how their studies translate into positive, meaningful outcomes for communities. In 2025, 48 scholarships were awarded, providing a total of $100,000 in support across all recipients.
The Māori Trustee administers the Sir Āpirana Ngata Memorial scholarship on behalf of the Māori Soldiers Trust. This includes promoting the scholarship and managing applications. For more information, go to www.tetumupaeroa.co.nz.
