Learner Support Fund - Tahua Taunaki Akonga

The Learner Support Fund - Tahua Taunaki Akonga is a programme offered by Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu that provides tuition sessions and additional support to Ngāi Tahu children. The fund offers out-of-school tuition funding to complement what is already offered within the classroom, helping children aged 5-21 who are registered with Whakapapa Ngāi Tahu and attending school in New Zealand or equivalent educational settings abroad. The programme operates on an annual financial cycle commencing with Term 3 each year and finishing with Term 2 of the following year. The fund provides two tiers of support: a standard allocation of $470 (+GST where applicable) for eligible children, and an enhanced allocation of $940 (+GST where applicable) for children requiring remedial support or studying at NCEA level needing support in two or more subject areas. Applications require a pre-tuition assessment report completed by the child's school teacher. The fund is designed to support educational achievement for Ngāi Tahu whānau members. Additionally, the programme includes Special Assessment Funding up to $940 +GST per child per financial year for specialist learning assessments for children with special educational needs. The fund is currently closed due to high demand and is expected to reopen on or before 1 July 2026.