59168 (2025). Shanan Halbert to the Minister for Universities

59168 (2025). Shanan Halbert to the Minister for Universities: What extra funding or support, if any, will be given to Wānanga to help them achieve the goals outlined in the Tertiary Education Strategy?

Hon Dr Shane Reti: The Government invested over $206 million in the Wānanga sector in 2024 via the Tertiary Education Commission’s investment process. This includes funding of $24 million (each Wānanga receive $8 million) per annum in recognition of their unique funding pressures. In 2025, I confirmed that the funding mechanism for the payments will be changed from a section 556 grant to a funding determination made under section 419, to provide Wānanga with greater certainty in the continuity of this funding and to place it on par with other enduring special purpose funding. Wānanga were consulted on this and have confirmed their support. The Ngā Whare Wānanga Allocated Fund funding determination took effect from 1 January 2026. The Tertiary Education Strategy will inform how funding is prioritised and the performance expectations that will go with it. It will also inform ongoing policy decisions, including via the Budget process.