A revised approach to training which also introduces a new induction programme will be rolled out nationally for all Māori Wardens in July 2013.

Last September, the Māori Wardens Project based in Te Puni Kōkiri, completed a review of Māori Wardens training needs. In consultation with Wardens throughout the country a revised training programme was developed.

“The training we are rolling out has been re-designed into a modular package that intro-duces and in some cases acts as a refresher for Wardens to the necessary skills and knowledge required for them to work safely in their communities,” says Ngapera Hoerara, Senior Advisor Strategy for the Project.

“We are excited about it and initial discussions with Wardens have been extremely positive because the revised modular training also assists with other pathways to further or higher educational opportunities,” says Ngapera.

After the review and consultation it was found that in some regions a cadet might train for three months while in other regions there is a three year period before they’re able to seek nomination to become a warranted Māori Warden.

“Our aim is to bring in a consistent approach to induction and training so that anyone who completes these programmes will have done the required hours and content.”

At the same time, the Māori Wardens Project is taking on board the Wardens’ desire for greater responsibility to determine their own future.

“That’s why we are in the process of training Wardens from each of the Māori Wardens Districts so that they can go out and do the induction and training themselves,” says Ngapera.

A new induction and training handbook has been written and will be used in the July roll-out.