Te Wharau School recognises the cultural diversity of New Zealand, Aotearoa and also recognises the special knowledge held by our local iwi. Our curriculum encourages students to understand and respect the knowledge and practices of our local iwi. Lessons are weekly throughout the year ensure our students are familiar with tikanga, reo, waiata and mihi. The Board will consider any requests for instruction in Te Reo in the light of resources, expertise and community organisation at the time.

Mana Kāinga is a sense of belonging. It is who we are, where we are from, and how we interact with our community and the world around us. It embraces the five Tātaiako competencies (the Ministry of Education identified cultural competencies for teachers of Māori learners) - Ako, Wananga, Manaakitanga, Whanaungatanga, Tangata Whenuatanga.