Te Waka Taki Kōrero – Māori Literature Trust invites submissions from mid-career Māori writers seeking to undertake development opportunities between February – May 2026. There are two grants available to the value of $6,000 each.
Established with the support of Creative New Zealand, Te Tupu Hauroa is the third step in the Trust’s Poutama Programme.
- The Pikihuia Awards are designed to identify Māori writers
- Te Papa Tupu provides development opportunities for selected Māori writers
- Te Tupu Hauroa has been set up to support mid-career Māori writers.
Te Tupu Hauroa is an acknowledgement of the ongoing support required for mid-career Māori writers to continue developing their craft; the aim is to contribute to this development by enabling additional space and time for further learning.
Eligibility criteria
- Demonstrate whakapapa Māori;
- List previously published (minimum 2 publications) and have achieved recognition whether nationally or internationally for their work;
- Provide evidence of contribution to the kaituhi Māori community;
- Present a summary of development outcome(s) intended; and
- Agree to being included in Māori Literature Trust promotion activities.
Intended outcome
The vision of The Māori Literature Trust – Te Waka Taki Kōrero is: E tuhi, taki mai i te ao Māori ki te ao whānui – Taking Māori voices to the world. The Trust is seeking applications that give effect to this vision. Here are some examples of possible outcomes:
- Engage a mentor to develop your writing
- Engage a marketing professional to develop a personal profile of you as a writer
- Attend a course to further develop your skills at writing in te reo Māori
- Create a network of kaituhi Māori to share ideas and support
Submission format
- A single cover letter outlining development intention according to criteria and associated budget.
- A supporting summary of achievements, published works, contribution to kaituhi Māori/literary sector or similar according to criteria.
- Letters of support.
- Submit your application to: programme@mlt.org.nz
- Submissions close at 5:00pm, Friday 30 January 2026.
The Māori Literature Trust – Te Waka Taki Kōrero now invites submissions from mid-career Māori writers. There are two grants available to the value of $6,000 each to undertake development opportunities between February – May 2026 and who meet the eligibility criteria above.
