The Kaitiaki Taiao Tauira Programme is an initiative co-developed by the Hokonui Rūnanga and LINZ.

The Programme is a 3-year initiative for tauira (students) to experience different environmental and conservation mahi associated with the rūnanga and gain qualifications while working.

Tauira will work in the Hokonui Rūnanga Kaupapa Taiao team to learn about Ngāi Tahu iwi and what it means to be a kaitiaki of the land, the spiritual connection to the land and how to protect our many taonga (treasures). All while gaining practical skills and knowledge to grow as kaitiaki and enhance the te au tūroa (the natural world).