Te Rangi Ataahua Eruera-Watts

3rd-year student, Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing)

She wants to be part of changing the way healthcare is delivered, says Te Rangi Ataahua Eruera-Watts who is studying a Bachelor of Health Science (Nursing).

“I chose to study nursing to support te iwi Māori, and contribute to building a more culturally safe and inclusive healthcare system; one where both Māori and non-Māori feel respected and understood. I want to make sure our healthcare system reflects the values, needs and voices of our people.

“I came to AUT because of its strong focus on equity and teachings on cultural safety, as well as the fact it provides more clinical hours than other universities, which translates into more experiences and opportunities to grow. The presence of dedicated Māori spaces and Māori advisory staff made AUT feel like the right place to grow both as a nurse and as a tauira Māori. I’ve also appreciated the freedom that comes with being a student; having that safety net to learn, make mistakes and explore different areas of nursing. It’s allowed me to figure out what it means to be a nurse in today’s healthcare system and to keep developing my 'why’.”

Being awarded a Southern Cross Nursing Scholarship – Undergraduate to help her achieve her goal has made a big difference to her studies, she says.

“I applied for the scholarship because I saw it as a way to ease the financial pressure of studying, which has enabled me to reduce my work hours and avoid the burnout I was starting to feel in such a demanding programme. Instead of constantly juggling work shifts, coursework and clinical placements, I’ve had more time to focus on my assignments, attend placements fully prepared, and absorb what I’m learning. It has given me the space to enjoy being a student, to explore who I am, what I’m passionate about and where I see myself in the future.

“The scholarship has also opened up opportunities I might not have otherwise had, reconnecting with kaupapa that matters most to me, and attending events like Hui ā Tau, which I would have otherwise skipped due to financial pressure. This, in turn, also enabled me to network within the nursing field. These experiences have strengthened both my academic journey and my sense of purpose as a future nurse.”

Supported to thrive
There’s a genuine sense that AUT wants its students to succeed, Te Rangi says.

“I’d recommend AUT’s nursing programme, especially for those who are new to university life or returning to study after some time away. Compared to other universities I’ve studied at, AUT stands out in terms of the support it offers students, particularly in the first year. From the beginning, I felt well-guided and supported. The support systems aren’t just available; they’re actively offered, which can make a huge difference when you’re still finding your feet.

“For anyone who might feel unsure about stepping into tertiary education, AUT makes that transition feel a lot more manageable. A clear example of this commitment is AUT’s support for Māori nursing students to attend Hui ā Tau, the national Māori student nurses’ hui. AUT provided funding for us to travel to Taranaki for this event, which was an incredible opportunity to connect with Māori nursing students from all over Aotearoa.”

There are a few AUT members whose guidance she has especially appreciated.

“Chris Sapwell organised attending the Hui ā Tau event for us students. Ali Forshaw, one of the mental health lecturers, is always very supportive, and understands the struggles students face with coursework and clinical placements. Finally, Shayne Rasmussen – the course leader for the Introduction to Nursing Practice course – celebrates and acknowledges Māori nursing students, encouraging us to keep moving forward and continue to excel as tauira Māori.”

Advice for other students
Expecting to graduate at the end of the year, Te Rangi has some great advice for other students.

“Make the most of your time as a student; it’s the perfect opportunity to grow. Attend your lectures, but always remember to attend your very first lecture and very last lecture for each course, engage in discussions, and show up even when it’s hard. You can always rewatch the content online, but being present helps you absorb more than just information; it helps you find your rhythm as a nurse. If you're struggling, reach out. Whether it's academic help, placement stress or just feeling overwhelmed, some people have been in your shoes. You're never alone.”

She also has some specific advice for other Māori students.

“Connect early with other Māori students. Spend time in the whānau room at the AUT North Campus and attend kaupapa Māori events like Hui ā Tau. These are powerful spaces where you can build on whakawhanaungatanga, share experiences and learn from one another. Strengthening your connection to te ao Māori while navigating the healthcare system will give you a sense of balance and confidence, especially when the two worlds come together.

“Bring your identity with you into clinical placements. Carry the mātauranga you already have, and use it with pride. Cultural safety starts with us, and when you speak up for your mana or someone else’s, you create safer spaces for everyone. Engage with cultural advisors in hospitals if needed, and don’t be afraid to lean on them for support during placements. You don’t have to be the loudest voice in the room, but never dim your light as a tauira Māori and as a student nurse. Be proud. Take up space. Help shape the future of nursing so that those who come after you feel safe, seen and empowered.”