We're Te Kura Maninirau, Aotearoa's first circus school grounded in a kaupapa Māori approach, offering koha-based classes to tamariki.
Auckland
In Tāmaki Makaurau, too many tamariki miss out on the joy and benefits of the arts because of financial barriers, limited access, and a lack of culturally safe spaces where they can simply be themselves.
We believe every child deserves the opportunity to explore their creativity in an environment that celebrates who they are, strengthens their confidence, and nurtures their connection to te ao Māori.
That's why we offer koha-based circus arts classes across Tāmaki Makaurau, grounded in a kaupapa Māori approach. Our classes are about much more than learning circus skills. They are spaces where tamariki build resilience, grow their confidence, develop friendships, express themselves creatively, and deepen their sense of belonging within their culture and community.
As demand for our programmes continues to grow in 2026, we need the support of our wider community to keep these opportunities accessible for all whānau. Every koha helps us cover essential costs such as kaiako fees, equipment, venue hire, and striving to create safe, welcoming spaces where tamariki can learn, play, and thrive.
Whether you can make a financial contribution, share your time and skills, donate resources, or even bring along some home baking for our classes, your support helps strengthen this kaupapa and ensures it continues to flourish.
Together, we can remove barriers to participation and ensure that every tamaiti has the opportunity to learn, grow, and shine through the arts.
Te Kura Maninirau, Aotearoa’s first kaupapa Māori circus school, is delivered by The Dust Palace Charitable Trust. Te Kura Maninirau exists to make circus arts approachable for tangata whenua through a kaupapa Māori pedagogy.
Your contribution will help cover kaiako fees, venue hire, purchasing of specialist equipment, rigging inspections, food for classes, insurance, and much more.
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