Tyra Begbie

Tyra Begbie (Raukawa, Ngāti Huri) enrolled in a Bachelor of Environmental Planning in Te Ara Taiao: Māori and the Environment to ensure a thriving world for present and future generations. “My pā, whānau and whenua is what has grounded my kaitiaki obligations and led me down this path,” she says.

It was important to the Putāruru student to choose a University deeply connected to her identity, and the reputation of Waikato’s Māori academics and research gave her confidence in her decision. “As a rangatahi Māori with big aspirations, I knew these pōu would guide me in my ascension of knowledge,” she says. 

Tyra’s favourite paper, ENVPL302 Māori Resource Management, explored the intimate relationship Māori have with the environment. Alongside leadership skills she developed as Co-President of Te Tini o Hakuturi, a Māori environmental rōpū, her time at Waikato has given her the drive to help re-indigenise environmental management in Aotearoa and create a Tiriti-centric, mokopuna-focused country that works in collaboration with communities, iwi and hāpu. “Our world is facing significant environmental, political and social challenges, and it will require individuals who are brave, knowledgeable and skilled to make a positive impact.

This programme equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to tackle these challenges and work towards a more sustainable future.” Tyra recommends current and future students always keep their ‘why’ at the forefront during their study: “While the road may be long, staying connected to your purpose will serve as a guiding path through tough moments. Remember to have fun and embrace every moment of the experience!”