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He Toka Tū Moana – Toi Moana Environmental Scholarship

He Toka Tū Moana Scholarship is a Council approved initiative established in 2017 to recognise and support students who are undertaking study, research or training that aligns with the enhancement and protection of our Taiao.

Purpose

The main purpose of the fund is to provide a level of financial assistance to students studying, training or undertaking research on kaupapa related to enhancing the Taiao/Environment.

The benefits of the fund are to:

  • Focus on environmental education and kaitiakitanga/guardianship.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to enhancing environmental knowledge.
  • Raise environmental awareness and understanding.
  • Provide financial support to students.
  • Encourage Mātauranga Māori research and education.
  • Promote leadership and innovation.

Who is eligible to apply?

  • Preference is given to applicants who whakapapa, reside or actively maintain a demonstrable connection to the Bay of Plenty.
  • Applicants must be enrolled to study at a University, Whare Wānanga, Polytechnic, Institute of Technology, Teachers Training College or comparable tertiary institution.
  • Applicants must be in their 2nd year or subsequent year of study.
  • Applications and supporting documentation must be received before the specified closing date / time. Late applications will not be considered.

Successful applicants are required to provide an update within 6-12 months of your academic progress.

For further enquiries please contact:  

Lisa Tauroa, Kaituitui (Strategic Engagement Coordinator) 
Email: TeAmorangi@boprc.govt.nz
Phone: 0800 884 880

Applications

Applications for 2026 are now open and will close on the 8th April.

Applicant details
Brief proposal
Describe your connection to the Bay of Plenty region and the ways you contribute positively to your community or the environment. This may include volunteering, marae involvement, community leadership, environmental restoration work, cultural activities, or other service to your community.
Explain how your field of study will contribute to improved outcomes for the Bay of Plenty taiao and community. You may wish to describe how your studies relate to environmental protection, sustainable resource management, mātauranga Māori, community wellbeing, or other areas that support the future of the Bay of Plenty. Please also explain how your studies align with your future career path.
Explain what motivated you to apply for this scholarship and what it would mean for your study journey. Please describe any challenges, circumstances, or responsibilities that may impact your ability to begin or continue your studies. These may include financial hardship, family, or caregiving responsibilities, living in a rural or remote area, travel or relocation requirements, disability, or being the first person in your whānau to attend tertiary education. You may also describe how receiving this scholarship would support your ability to continue your studies.
Supporting documents

Please ensure the following support documents are attached with your application.

Please upload your current curriculum vitae (CV) - Recommended two pages or less.
Please upload proof of current enrolment at a relevant college or university. You also need to show proof that you are in your second year or later. Finally, submit a copy of your results from the previous year.
Please upload proof of ID - copy of licence, passport or student ID.
Have you applied for or received any other scholarships, grants, or financial assistance for your current study?
Yes
No
(name of funder, scholarship/grant name, and amount if known).
Conditions
  • Preference is given to applicants who whakapapa, reside or actively maintain a demonstrable connection to the Bay of Plenty.
  • Applicants must be enrolled to study at a University, Whare Wānanga, Polytechnic, Institute of Technology, Teachers Training College or comparable tertiary institution.
  • Applicants must be in their 2nd year or subsequent year of study.
  • Applications and supporting documentation must be received before the specified closing date / time. Late applications will not be considered.
  • Successful applicants are required to provide an update within 6-12 months of your academic progress.
  • Successful scholarship recipients are expected to attend Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council Komiti Māori upon invitation to formally receive award.
  • Scholarship recipients agree that the Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council may include details of the recipient holder for promotional purposes.
  • Applicants will be notified of outcome via email no later than 5pm Sunday 2 June 2024.
  • Applicants consent to the Council contacting the named referee.
  • All applications must be submitted no later than 5pm Sunday 19 May 2024.

In accordance with the Privacy Act, all the information provided in this application will be used in the assessment of an applicant for a scholarship.

I have read and understood the terms and conditions. I declare that all information provided is true to the best of my knowledge.

You will receive a confirmation of your application submission. Please contact Lisa.tauroa@boprc.govt.nz if you do not receive it.