Rangitīkei tribe signs agreement with UCOL to develop education and economic opportunities

UCOL chief executive Dr Amanda Lynn and Te Rūnanga o Ngā Wairiki-Ngāti Apa chief executive Grant Huwyler have signed a memorandum of understanding. Photo / Supplied

Rangitīkei's Ngā Wairiki-Ngāti Apa rūnanga (council) and the UCOL polytechnic have agreed to work together on development opportunities for whānau living in the region.

The aim is to encourage new growth across educational, economic, cultural, social and environmental areas.

A memorandum of understanding was signed last week at Te Poho o Tuariki, the rūnanga base in Marton, formerly Turakina Maōri Girls' College.

Education, training and economic opportunities are a particular focus, rūnanga chief executive Grant Huwyler said.

"The focus of this relationship is to increase the education and training opportunities provided on site.

"This relationship is essential to developing a thriving and connected Rangitīkei community."

Te Poho o Tuariki development project represents potentially the biggest collaborative approach to economic development that has been seen in the district.

The rūnanga bought the large property in April 2018 and officially opened it in February this year. The complex now houses Te Kotuku Hauora, the tribe's health service, and its administration centre. Land Based Training uses part of it and there is room for other providers.

The rūnanga/UCOL relationship is of both friendship and partnership, with a shared vision for the development of people, UCOL chief executive Dr Amanda Lynn said.

"We are very happy with the new focus on this strategic partnership and the UCOL team are very keen to be a part of new education-related opportunities that benefit learners who wish to study in preparation for employment, or train while in employment."

In November last year the iwi got $95,000 from the Provincial Growth Fund to write a business case about options for development of Te Poho o Tuariki. The business case is yet to be submitted.