Te Maioha Kahurangi Paniora-Hepi
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Laws
She has loved learning about the law and how it works in the real world, compared to what you see in the movies, says Te Maioha Kahurangi Paniora-Hepi.
“Law has helped me understand how the real world works, and how I can use my skills to advocate for my people when they feel alone and defenceless. I’ve really enjoyed being able to apply what I learn to my own life and better understand how the legal system affects everyday situations. I’ve also loved learning more about tikanga Māori through Te Aro Ture, the AUT Māori Law Students Society, and seeing how it’s being recognised and strengthened within the legal system. Studying law has shown me how I can stand alongside others and make sure their voices are heard.”
Choosing to study at AUT was easy for her.
“AUT feels genuinely accommodating and supportive. Not only is it close to home and accessible for me, but it also embraces culture and the student life. Events like AUTaia – AUT’s way to welcome new ākonga Maori and whanau – create safe and welcoming spaces for tauira Māori to feel connected and supported as they transition into university life. They made sure that I, as a young tauira Māori, felt welcomed, valued and set up to succeed from the very beginning.”
A mix of challenge, growth and fun
Te Maioha says she loves the independence and freedom university offers.
“From joining Te Aro Ture to attending events and managing my own time, I’ve learnt so much about myself. Te Pou Māori, AUT’s Māori student support team, has supported me immensely. They’ve connected me with other Māori students, and the whānau room is a great place for tauira to study, socialise and enjoy kai. They’ve created a homelike environment with never-ending support for tauira Māori and other ethnic groups. Last year, I also had the honour and privilege of being president of Te Aro Ture and was named club leader of the year. It was a very eventful and full-on job, but it was the most rewarding.
“I’ve also loved the small wins: celebrating milestones with my whānau and friends, or even just discovering a new favourite study spot on campus or a new spot to eat out. Learning alongside my friends has been a bonus too. It’s been a mix of challenge, growth and fun that makes the student life fun and enjoyable.”
She is grateful for the support of a Keir Trust Study Award throughout this journey.
“The Keir Trust Study Award has supported me in so many different ways. Throughout uni, I’ve had ongoing issues with my car, and the scholarship has helped cover essential bills, contributed to my tuition fees and supported me with kai during the year. Without this scholarship, I wouldn’t be able to manage both my studies and my commitments in and out of university as well as I do. It has made a real difference to my ability to succeed.”
Advice for other students
Te Maioha has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university journey.
“My advice to other students would be not to take things too seriously. Don’t stress or dwell on things too much. Be kind to people and to yourself, do life with joy, be thankful for what you have and make the most of your time. Have fun, explore and try new things now, because you can always settle down later.”
She wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to other students.
“I’d recommend AUT because of the strong community and support systems. AUT has created a space where you feel connected, supported and encouraged to reach your goals. It’s a welcoming environment where you can build genuine connections, feel supported – both academically and personally – and be part of a community that actually cares about your success. The people and support services have made a big difference in my uni life, and I’m really grateful to be studying here.”
