Māhia Mete-Smith

Studying a conjoint degree at the University of Waikato meant Māhia Mete-Smith could stay grounded as a tauira Māori, wahine Māori (Māori student, female Māori).

“I could not envisage my future without both,” says Māhia who is studying Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Arts in Te Reo Māori.

The first in her family to pursue higher education, Māhia dreams of returning to her small country town of Whatatutu on the East Coast and opening her own law practice.

Drawing on the skills she learnt in her favourite first-year paper, Legal Method B where practical skills are applied in real life through mooting will be key.

Throughout her studies, Māhia has been involved in University groups such as Te Waiora, Te Whakahiapo and Te Kāuru, a space for students to grow and thrive in a Māori environment, the International Buddy Programme, and Vice-President Māori of Waikato Student Union.

Māhia also received an award from the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori Office for her contributions to the tauira Māori community, Te Manu Huia.

“Rōpū Māori (Māori groups and networks) are the highlight of my whole student experience every year. I wholeheartedly encourage tauira Māori to get amongst the kaupapa, it makes your university experience one to remember.”