An EIT graduate has made history, becoming the first from the institute’s Bachelor of Teaching programme to step into a school principal role, marking a major milestone for Māori education leadership in Hawke’s Bay.
Grace Ropitini of Ngāti Kahungunu and Palawa descent has been appointed Acting Principal of Te Kura o Mangateretere, one of the region’s oldest schools, bringing her journey full circle as she takes the helm of a kura deeply connected to her whānau and community.
At just 29, Ropitini’s rise reflects years of dedication, balancing study, work and raising a young family before graduating in 2019 and moving straight into teaching. Her pathway has been shaped by strong community ties and a commitment to uplifting tamariki through education.
Her connection to Mangateretere runs generations deep, with her grandmother among those who attended the school, which sits at the heart of four local marae. That legacy is now guiding her leadership as she works to strengthen relationships between the kura, its students and the wider community.
After five years in the classroom, Ropitini developed a passion for mentoring and leadership, helping support new teachers and encouraging partnerships with EIT to create pathways into employment. Her leadership journey has also included mentorship through regional programmes and involvement with the Māori Principals Association.
Alongside her teaching career, she has committed to reconnecting with her language, completing immersive te reo Māori study and continuing further education in Māori studies. That journey has played a key role in shaping her identity and confidence as a leader.
Now leading a kura of around 35 students, Ropitini is focused on creating an environment where tamariki feel seen, valued and connected to their culture, while strengthening community engagement around the school.
Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for Mangateretere, a school with a long history but also recent uncertainty. Early signs under her leadership show renewed engagement from students and strong support from whānau.
Education leaders say her achievement highlights the strength of EIT’s teaching programme and the growing pathway for Māori educators into leadership roles, with Ropitini emerging as a role model for future generations.
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