The Write Course at Waiariki

The Write Course at Waiariki

Maramena Roderick, well-known Maori journalist and herself a Waiariki Journalism graduate, has agreed to tutor two key modules in Waiariki’s Diploma of Journalism in 2004.

The appointment of Ms Roderick, previously a successful writer for the New Zealand Herald and TVNZ’s London correspondent for four years, this further establishes Waiariki Institute of Technology as the leading establishment for the teaching of te ao Maori and journalism courses within New Zealand. Annabel Schuler, programme leader for Journalism at the Institute, has seen an excellent success rate in placing students in industry.

“Both the mainstream and Maori language media are crying out for people who understand the processes and protocols involved in the reporting of Maori issues. Our journalism courses have focused on these areas as they have been designed to be relevant and connected with the needs of the industry - and this is reflected in the success achieved by our graduates.”

She points out the programme is not solely for Maori but also attracts non-Maori who wish to add a further dimension to their journalistic ability.

After studying the Diploma of Journalism in 2002, Anzac Pikia went straight into working for TVNZ as a current affairs reporter for Maori Television. “Studying at Waiariki Institute of Technology gave me the preparation I needed to fully understand and recognize the different Maori issues and perspectives in current affairs reporting. The course was excellent – everyone from students to tutors were really supportive and my work experience at TVNZ while studying at the Institute then led to a full time job. I am loving it.” He is one of two Waiariki journalism graduates currently working on Te Karere.

According to Chris Wikaira, chair of the Advisory Committee to Waiariki’s journalism programme and a radio journalist and broadcaster for 14 years, formal training is a vital stepping stone to entering a career in journalism.

“A good journalist will never stop learning, no matter how long they stay on the job. But you need to learn the tools of the trade to become a good journalist in the first place. The media has not always been good at reporting Maori issues and it is the role of the Advisory Committee at Waiariki Institute of Technology to encourage industry training. The more Maori who get into the industry and bring an understanding of te ao Maori to their reporting, the better off the whole country will be.”

There are two journalism courses available at Waiariki Institute of Technology – the Certificate in Journalism (18 weeks) and the Diploma in Journalism (18 months). Full details of these courses can be found on the website www.waiariki.ac.nz or by calling 0800 WAIARIKI (924 274).

For students who want to find out more before undertaking training, Waiariki is running a free Journalism Taster Day on Saturday 17 January 2004 from 10am – 3pm at Mokoia Campus, Rotorua.

Editor’s Notes

Waiariki was established in 1978 and is this year celebrating its 25th Anniversary. It is one of New Zealand’s largest provincial tertiary institutes, with over 6,000 full-time and part-time students at campuses in Rotorua, Taupo, Tokoroa and Whakatane.

For more information: Annabel Schuler Programme Leader, Journalism Waiariki Institute of Technology Tel: 07 346 8828 / 021 237 2059 Email: annabel.schuler@waiariki.ac.nz

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