Cultural Advisor - Turi Māori

ABOUT US / MŌ MĀTOU

Ko Taku Reo Deaf Education New Zealand is the national provider of education services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing ākonga across Aotearoa. We work in partnership with ākonga, whānau, schools and communities so Deaf and Hard of Hearing learners can thrive and succeed.

Our work recognises the importance of identity, language and culture in education. We honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi, promote New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL), and are committed to ensuring Turi Māori ākonga are supported to succeed as Māori.

We are seeking a Cultural Advisor – Turi Māori to provide cultural leadership and strengthen the integration of Te Ao Māori, tikanga and te reo Māori across our organisation.

THE ROLE / TE MAHI

Reporting to the Deputy Principal – Culture and Language this role provides cultural leadership and strategic guidance to ensure Turi Māori ākonga and their whānau experience a strong sense of belonging and achieve excellent educational outcomes.

You will work across the organisation to support culturally responsive practice and strengthen partnerships with whānau, hapū and iwi.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing cultural advice to ensure policies, programmes and practices reflect Te Ao Māori, tikanga and te reo Māori
• Supporting staff to build strong, culturally responsive relationships with Māori ākonga and whānau
• Championing high-quality learning opportunities that support Māori learner success
• Supporting the implementation of the Ministry of Education’s Ka Hikitia – Māori Education Strategy
• Providing cultural leadership and oversight for the school’s marae Rūaumoko, Auckland and Tuawera, Christchurch
• Facilitating engagement with iwi, hapū and Māori communities through hui and partnerships
• Strengthening organisational capability in culturally responsive practice and tikanga Māori

This part-time (0.8FTE) role includes national travel and is preferable that it is based in Auckland, however, we are flexible for the right candidate.

ABOUT YOU / MŌ KOE

You are a trusted cultural leader who is passionate about supporting Māori learners and strengthening educational outcomes for Turi Māori ākonga.

You will ideally bring:

• A tertiary qualification in education or a related field, or equivalent experience
• Strong knowledge and lived understanding of Te Ao Māori, tikanga and te reo Māori
• Fluency in NZSL
• Experience working within the New Zealand education sector, ideally including special education
• Strong relationships with whānau, hapū, iwi and Māori communities
• Excellent communication, facilitation and collaboration skills
• A full New Zealand driver’s licence and willingness to travel nationally

Most importantly, you bring authenticity, integrity and a commitment to ensuring Turi Māori learners are supported to thrive as Māori.

HOW TO APPLY / ME PEHEA TE TONO

If you are passionate about strengthening outcomes for Turi Māori ākonga and contributing to culturally responsive education across Aotearoa, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role.

Applications close: 5pm Monday 6 April 2026