Whakaeke Poneke - MinterEllisonRuddWatts First in Whanau Award at Victoria University of Wellington 2025

Whakaeke Poneke - MinterEllisonRuddWatts First in Whanau Award at Victoria University of Wellington

The Whakaeke Pōneke First in Whānau Award, established in 2023 and funded by MinterEllisonRuddWatts, supports Māori law students who are the first in their immediate family to attend university or graduate with an LLB. It provides financial assistance and pastoral support to help with study or living costs and aims to encourage greater diversity in the law profession.

Eligibility Criteria of Whakaeke Poneke - MinterEllisonRuddWatts First in Whanau Award:

1. Applicants must be of Māori descent, a New Zealand citizen or permanent resident, and the first in their immediate family to attend university or graduate with a Bachelor of Laws.
2. Applicants must have completed at least three compulsory second-year law courses and intend to continue their undergraduate law degree at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington the following year.

Selection Criteria: 

1. Selection considers academic achievement and the applicant’s passion for a career in law, as well as their potential to contribute to the profession.
2. Motivation to succeed at university and personal circumstances, including financial or other hardship, will also be assessed through a personal statement and kōrero with the MERW Selection Committee.

Application Process: A completed online application must be submitted on the closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Award: NZD 5,000.

Note: 

1. Award recipients may need to participate in promotional activities, including on social media, and must comply with the award conditions, notifying MERW of any changes in enrolment or funding.
2. The award is currently tax-free under legislation, though Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington cannot guarantee this status.