Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu Micro-Credential
Ethnic-specific service delivery models, when working with Family Violence
Level 6 | 20 Credits
introduction
Introducing the first NZQA-accredited Pacific Family Violence qualification, designed to enhance the cultural capability of family violence practitioners.
At its core are eight ethnic-specific frameworks, offering tailored approaches that reflect the values, beliefs and cultural practices of Pacific communities.
Participants will complete training in at least two frameworks to earn the micro-credential, with the option to explore additional frameworks for deeper learning.
Offered free of charge, this flexible programme equips professionals with culturally relevant skills to support Pacific families and address family violence more effectively.
Course outline
The Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu Micro-Credential consists of two key components:
- Online learning
Complete a self-paced online course that introduces the Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu framework, focusing on family violence prevention, cultural competency and legal/ethical considerations when working with Pacific families. - Cultural frameworks
Attend in-person training for at least two of the eight Pacific cultural frameworks. These frameworks offer ethnic-specific approaches tailored to the values and beliefs of each Pacific group.
Available Frameworks
Kiribati
Boutokaan te Mweeraoi
Samoa
O le Tōfa Mamao
Tuvalu
Toku Fou Tiale
Tonga
Fofola e Fala kae Talanoa e Kāinga
Niue
Fakatupuolamoui he Tau Magafaoa Niue
Fiji
Vuvale Sautu
Tokelau
Kāiga Ma’opo’opo
Cook Islands
Tūranga Māori
By completing both components, participants will earn the NZQA-recognised Nga Vaka o Kāiga Tapu Micro-Credential, empowering them to apply culturally responsive strategies to prevent and address family violence effectively.
Course structure
The course includes:
- One full-day in-person workshop.
- 60% online learning, 40% reflection and practical application.
- Complete seven modules at your own pace.
Why do this training?
- Gain practical tools – Learn how to apply Pacific cultural frameworks to address family violence in real-world situations.
- Culturally responsive approaches – Deepen your understanding of the unique values, practices and needs of Pacific ethnic groups.
- Real-life application – Explore case studies that highlight successful culturally informed engagement strategies.
- Flexible learning – Complete seven modules at your own pace, with additional readings and multimedia resources to support your journey.
Who should apply?
Eligibility criteria
- Being 20 years or older.
- Holding a Level 5 (or equivalent) qualification.
- Having a minimum of two years of experience in the social services sector or a related field.
- Experience working with families from the two ethnic groups chosen for your micro-credential completion.
We encourage participants from diverse backgrounds and experiences. If you are passionate about making a difference in Pacific communities and meet most of the requirements but feel uncertain about your eligibility, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to support you and find pathways for participation.
Language
Technology requirements
Course costs
This course is offered free of charge.
Cohorts are limited to a maximum of 20 participants to ensure an engaging and supportive learning environment.
Delivered by The Cause Collective, in partnership with Pacific community facilitators and the New Zealand Academic Learning Institute (NZALI), this micro-credential leverages years of expertise in culturally informed, Pacific-led family violence prevention.
Koli Funaki
Programme Designer
[email protected]
Register your interest
Enquiries
To speak to someone about this course, please contact Koli Funaki
Training Schedule
Frequently asked questions
A micro-credential is a short, accredited course that provides specialised skills and knowledge in a focused area. This course allows professionals to upskill quickly while gaining recognised qualifications.
The course includes one full-day workshop and 7 online modules (2–4 hours each). With about 200 learning hours, it offers flexibility to progress at your own pace.
It offers an NZQA-accredited qualification, equivalent to degree-level study, providing a formal, structured learning experience for both professional and academic growth.
The course includes 60% online learning and workshops, with 40% dedicated to personal reflection and applying new skills in practice.
This accredited course enhances staff cultural competency and equips them with Pacific-specific frameworks, boosting organisational capability and services for Pacific communities.
It’s self-paced, allowing participants to complete at least two frameworks to pass, with the option to explore all eight. Support includes facilitators, networking and guidance throughout.
- Provider cohorts (up to 20 participants) for group learning.
- Individual sign-ups for independent, self-paced learning with full support.
You will explore at least two frameworks, but there are opportunities to participate in additional workshops to cover all eight cultural frameworks for a more in-depth learning experience.
You’ll be able to apply Pacific-specific strategies to prevent family violence, advocate for cultural change and create harmonious family environments.
Our learners are the heart of everything we do, and we are all about supporting you every step of the way. We will provide you with a solid support system to give you the tools and resources you need to complete the training. You will have access to helpful facilitators who will walk you through the materials, a great peer network to connect and collaborate with and ongoing guidance to keep you on track. We aim to empower you and ensure that your learning experience is supportive.