Total Immersion Learning

In 2026, Orewa College will proudly launch our first-ever Rumaki Reo Māori programme for Year 7 and Year 8 ākonga. This Level 1 total immersion pathway offers ākonga the opportunity to learn primarily in te reo Māori, supported by kaupapa grounded in te ao Māori, mātauranga Māori, and tikanga Māori.

“Ka whakatōkia te reo, ka tipu te reo.” By planting the seed of te reo Māori, we support it to flourish.

Our Rumaki Reo classes are designed for tamariki who thrive in a Māori-medium setting, while still accessing key areas of English-medium learning. This includes Reading, Writing, and Mathematics, as well as specialist learning areas such as science, technology, the arts, and physical education.

Tauira will remain fully connected with the wider kura, participating in Year 7 & 8 events and activities including sports, leadership, and extracurricular opportunities.

Importantly, a high level of te reo Māori proficiency is not required for initial acceptance. The programme scaffolds language growth over time, encouraging confidence and development in a supportive, inclusive environment.

“We’re creating a space where te reo Māori is lived every day. Whānau are vital partners in this journey,” says one of our kaiako Māori.

Orewa College will open with two dedicated rumaki classrooms in 2026. As this is a special programme, enrolment is open to both in-zone and out-of-zone whānau, with limited spaces available.

Families who express interest will be invited to a hui with our kaiako Māori. This is a chance to kōrero, share aspirations, and explore how the programme can support your tamaiti.

We welcome whānau who are passionate about Māori-medium education and committed to the revitalisation of te reo Māori.