Oranga Matihiko
Pānui/News
Kia ora whānau — welcome to our pānui space. This is where we share the latest kōrero, highlight the mahi of our rangatahi, and keep you in the loop with kaupapa happening across the motu. From new workshops and creative tech updates to community shoutouts and behind-the-scenes peeks, this is our noticeboard and storytelling hub rolled into one.
Oranga Matihiko Officially opens
In 2025, Oranga Matihiko was formally established, having previously operated under Te Papatipu Matihiko.
We’ve now branched out as an independent entity carrying the same kaupapa, while embracing new ideas and exciting opportunities.
Our driving focus remains clear to bridge the digital divide for rangatahi, especially in communities where access to technology and creative learning pathways is limited. The evolution of our programmes reflects that commitment.
Where we once introduced 2D and 3D design skills, we now guide tauira through the fundamentals of game development opening doors to future focused careers, cultural expression through tech, and new possibilities for Māori-led innovation.
This shift was motivated by the stories we’ve heard, the potential we see, and the need to ensure rangatahi have more than access, they have agency.
Matatini 2025
We had the honour of supporting the Rangitukutuku team through a uniquely creative and kaupapa-driven collaboration.
Our mahi involved vectorising a suite of digital images, developing a 3D rendering of the site they were working with, and weaving leadership aspirations alongside the creative contributions of their ringa toi.
Our role was to ensure that the digital artwork designed for the Te Matatini 2025 VIP tent reflected the values, stories, and aspirations of the iwi leading the space. By facilitating kōrero between decision-makers and artists, we helped shape a cohesive visual direction that honoured both the kaupapa and the mana of the event.
Kauwaka Ipurangi 2025
Kauwaka te Ipurangi 2025 is a landmark kaupapa-led hui focused on Māori Internet Governance and the future of te ao matihiko through a Māori lens. Held at Te Papa Tongarewa in Te Whanganui-a-Tara on 13–14 May 2025, it brought together iwi, hapū, rangatahi, digital entrepreneurs, creatives, and policy shapers to wānanga the role of Māori in shaping a thriving, inclusive internet future
This kaupapa covererd Digital equity and online safety, AI in practice and indigenous data sovereignty, Māori intellectual property rights, Economic empowerment through tech, Te Reo Māori and tikanga in digital spaces, Global indigenous perspectives (including voices from Taiwan and the Cook Islands)
Oranga Matihiko proudly attended the three-day Kauwaka Ipurangi 2025 wānanga at Te Papa Tongarewa, contributing to the kōrero around Māori internet futures. As part of our involvement, we facilitated a hands-on workshop focused on rangatahi engagement—exploring how contemporary digital tools can be harnessed to support culturally grounded teaching practices. Our session wove together emerging tech, storytelling, and kaupapa Māori values to inspire new approaches to education in te ao matihiko.
Ngā Kura Ā Iwi 2025
As a part of tech week, Oranga Matihiko proudly supported Digital Natives Academy in delivering an immersive tech experience for tauira, under the umbrella of Ngā Kura ā Iwi. The programme introduced rangatahi to the exciting world of 3D digital creation, robotics, and gaming — all delivered entirely in Te Reo Māori.
We played a key role across every stage of the event, from planning and set-up through to delivery, pack-down, and post-event feedback. Working closely with DNA kaimahi and volunteers, we helped dismantle barriers that often limit Māori participation in tech, and showcased a future where rangatahi can thrive as digital creators grounded in culture and language.
Visit to Tū Ātea
During our visit to Tū Ātea, the HUB operated by Te Papatipu Matihiko in Ōtautahi, we had the privilege of witnessing tauira immersed in their morning ritual, a brain activation session powered by League of Legends. This innovative practice sharpens focus and prepares their minds for the day’s learning, blending play with purpose.
We also watched one tauira courageously rehearse and perform their Manu Kōrero speech in front of an audience, embodying both confidence and kaupapa. Connecting with one of our partnered HUBs was a powerful reminder of the collective momentum driving change for rangatahi Māori in the digital space.
These moments reaffirmed the impact of culturally grounded tech pathways and the importance of kanohi ki te kanohi relationships in shaping futures.
Matihiko Awards 2025
Matua Morehu was honoured as a finalist for two prestigious awards at the Matihiko Awards 2025 — Emergent Icon and Kaupapa. The evening brought together a vibrant collective of like-minded individuals spanning digital tech, governance, entrepreneurship, and innovation. While the awards were our kaupapa for attending, it was the relationships formed — the kōrero, the shared visions, and the sparks of collaboration — that left the most lasting impression.
Having the opportunity to wānanga with trailblazers who are carving out space for rangatahi Māori in tech was a reminder of the power of unity and intent in shaping futures.
Oranga Matihiko
In this ever-changing world, we are committed to providing future generations with the best opportunities to flourish and shine. Here, we work alongside our rangatahi to ensure their pathways are clear and well-supported.
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Contact Us
131 South Road Spotswood
Monday – Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
office@orangamatihiko.org
Oranga Matihiko 2025 l New Plymouth, Taranaki