Manaia Blade Muriwai King
Driven by her love for tamariki and guided by the principles of Te Whāriki, Manaia is building a meaningful career in early childhood education through her studies at NZTC.
What began as a part-time relieving job at Piccolo Park Early Learning Centre has blossomed into a deeply rewarding career in early childhood education for NZTC student Manaia Blade Muriwai King, who is flourishing in her role as a dedicated Kaiako.
Currently studying the New Zealand Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care (Level 6), Manaia said it was the encouragement from her centre manager and colleagues—who called her a “natural” and urged her to pursue teaching. “I didn’t see myself as a teacher at first,” she reflects. “I was simply enjoying being around tamariki and supporting where I could.”
Born in New Zealand with Māori and French heritage, Manaia brings a rich bicultural perspective to her teaching practice—something she values deeply and integrates into her everyday work with children.
Her dedication to Te Whāriki’s principles, especially those centred on whānau involvement and relationship-building, highlights her enthusiasm for teaching. Whether leading a group mat time in Te Reo Māori or planning a sensory weaving activity with harakeke, Manaia ensures every learning experience is inclusive, intentional, and meaningful.
“Teaching isn’t just a job to me,” she says. “It’s a purposeful journey. I’m passionate about walking alongside children as they explore the world, and I’m committed to being a lifelong learner myself.”
When Manaia wanted to formalise her training and study ECE teaching, she said that NZTC stood out as a clear choice.
“My colleagues spoke so highly of NZTC—the supportive tutors, flexible online learning, and how practical the course is.”
The programme’s strong integration of Te Reo Māori and the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi is important to Manaia. “It reflects Aotearoa’s true bicultural identity, and I want the children in my care to feel that connection too.”
One of the standout features of her study experience has been NZTC Online, which allows her to continue working full-time while studying.
“I usually work during the day, then study in the evenings, breaking my workload into manageable parts. By the weekend, I’ve completed my assignments and can proofread before submitting,” she says. “It’s all about consistency and routine.”
She also credits lecturers Whaea Joy and Whaea Sina for their ongoing support and encouragement. “They made me feel heard and confident in my progress. Their feedback kept me motivated.”
Manaia’s next goal is to complete her Bachelor of Teaching (ECE) with NZTC, with hopes of one day stepping into a leadership role. “I want to make an even greater impact in early childhood education. I’m excited about the opportunities ahead.” Reflecting on her journey so far, she adds, “I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to study with NZTC. It’s helped me grow personally and professionally—and I can’t wait to keep learning and making a difference in the lives of tamariki and their whānau.”