Struggling to meet costs?

We know this time of the year can be a challenge with winter bugs and living costs.

We want you to succeed in your study/training but we understand that sometimes you may face unexpected situations that can get in the way of that.

That’s why Te Pūkenga have set up the Manaaki Fund.

This funding has been designed so that if you face unexpected hardship, you can receive the support you need to continue with your study.

Who can access this?

• All ākonga (learners) enrolled in any study with us, whether you are campus-based, work-based or study online/by distance.
• Domestic and international ākonga.
• Ākonga who are also employed by us in a part-time capacity (e.g. as a Student Ambassador or Peer Tutor), as long as the larger part of your role is that of an ākonga.

What can it be used for?

The Fund is predominantly for those ākonga who cannot meet a basic cost of living and need support to ensure that you can continue with your study.

For example, it can be used for:

• covering essential living costs such as food, utilities, rent, internet connection, accommodation, medical fees, transport, clothing
• vouchers to support you with immediate needs e.g. petrol and food vouchers, homeware vouchers for products such as blankets, warm clothing
• covering additional living costs such as if you need to visit an unwell family member.

What does it not cover?

• Tuition fees, compulsory course costs, Student Services Fees
• Scholarships
• Technology-related support (hardware e.g. laptops, or software)
• Recreational activities
• Prezzy Cards

How do I apply?

We’ve set up a simple online application form so you can apply for funding online. Please make sure you supply everything you are asked for to make sure your application is complete when you submit it. And please make sure you provide your full bank details.

Apply now >

We have also added a page about the Manaaki Fund to your ākonga intranet, Kāpehu. This is sitting in the Support Services menu under Other services so you can easily access it at any time.

You can find the page by clicking here.

When will I hear about my application?

Please allow for a ten-day turnaround for your application to be processed.

We've got a lot of applications coming in and each will take a little while to process.

Thanks for your patience while we work through this!

Any questions?

Please don’t be shy about applying for support – everyone needs a helping hand from time-to-time and it’s what the fund is for.

If you have any questions or want to chat about this before filling in the application form, please email studentsuccess@op.ac.nz