To be a Kupe scholar is to embody the great discoverer. To have a desire to strike out for far horizons and chart new territory on their journey to learn and grow. To embrace diversity and bring energy, intellect and enthusiasm to studying and teaching.

The Kupe Scholarship, valued at over $22,000, is designed to attract and support top Māori and Pacific students into the teaching profession. The funding assists them in pursuing careers in early learning, primary and secondary education.

The new scholars were celebrated at an awards ceremony hosted by the Minister of Education, Hon Erica Stanford, at Parliament Buildings on Thursday 11 September.

Congratulations to all our 2025 Kupe Scholars. A full list of this year’s scholars is below.

For information on applying the Kupe Scholarships, visit the Education Workforce website.

Kupe scholarships – Education Workforce

Māori Kupe scholars#

Brittany Nelson

Daniel Tukiri

Deni-Jay McLean-Cuff

Emily Austin

Georgia Lloyd

Iraia Bailey

Kapowairangi Curtis

Kayla Waudby

Kingi Marr

Kuramate Tuirirangi

Laura Smith

Leanne Hutchinson

Maddisyn Hollis

Manaia Waudby

Manuhaea Mamaru-O'Regan

Miriama Bailey

Reece Raira-Pohatu

Vaiaio Holmes-Haweturi

Xavier Williams.

Pacific Kupe scholars#

Charles Lavakei'aho

Haven Nonoa

Makensie Waddell

Manaia Fagaio

Myra Moeai

Pioiva Sasa

Teisa Bernard

Tia Pavihi

Timoteo Vaiusu

Tiulipe Helu.