7 May 2026
Over $1 million is available in a new round of funding to support more Māori and Pasifika young people into engineering and technology careers.
The Matata Initiative, part of the Engineering New Zealand Foundation, is seeking expressions of interest for programmes to help these rangatahi pursue four‑year degrees. The funding round is for 2027–2029 and up to $350,000 is available annually.
Engineering New Zealand Foundation Chair Glen Cornelius FEngNZ CPEng IntPE(NZ) says increasing Māori and Pasifika representation in engineering is critical to building a profession that reflects Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Our profession is stronger when it includes the full diversity of the people it serves. The Matata Initiative is about breaking down barriers and creating meaningful pathways for more Māori and Pasifika young people to succeed in engineering careers.”
Auckland University first-year engineering student Moses Etana says receiving a Matata Initiative scholarship has reduced the financial pressure of study and helped him find what he’s passionate about – environmental and chemical engineering.
“I want to uphold sustainability in New Zealand,” says Etana.
“And find new ways to keep the country clean.”
Funded programmes must include scholarships or study awards of up to $5,000 for rangatahi entering qualifying engineering degrees. The Matata Initiative wants to provide at least 20 scholarships, ideally more than 30, annually by 2028.
Programmes will preferably be co-developed and co-delivered with relevant Māori or Pasifika organisations and communities, while providing both cultural and academic support for participants.
Previous Matata Initiative funding has supported organisations including Pūhoro STEMM Academy, Southland’s regional development agency Great South and Amanaki STEM Academy to deliver scholarships, outreach and pathway support for aspiring Māori and Pasifika engineers.
Expressions of interest for the 2027–2029 funding round close on 30 June 2026.
Organisations interested in applying can learn more at Matata Initiative | Engineering New Zealand or contact the Foundation team at foundation@engineeringnz.org.
Notes to reporters
Engineering New Zealand is New Zealand's professional body for engineers, representing over 23,000 members. We represent – and regulate – our members. We also act as the Registration Authority for Chartered Professional Engineers.
The Engineering New Zealand Foundation was established in 2002 to support Engineering New Zealand’s current and future members with their careers and wellbeing. The Foundation is complementary to Engineering New Zealand – but independent – it’s overseen by a Trust Board of six to eight members appointed by the Engineering New Zealand Board.
The Matata Initiative was launched by the Engineering New Zealand Foundation in 2023 with funding from Professors Dick and Mary Earle. It aims to lift the numbers of Māori and Pasifika young people who undertake four-year degrees in engineering or technology and go on to launch professional careers in those industries. You can learn the full story and background of the initiative on our website.
For more information or to arrange an interview please contact media@engineeringnz.org or 021 2118100.
