Ministry for Pacific Peoples & Zeducation: Empowering Pasifika Towards Homeownership and Financial Freedom
- Jun 7
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Funded by the Ministry for Pacific Peoples
Programme: Makatuliki – Financial Literacy & Homeownership Pathway
Timeframe: 2021–2023
People Trained: 92 Pasifika individuals
Locations: Mangere, Manurewa (in-person), Online (Nation-wide)
Outcomes: 11 first-time homebuyers, over 80% improved their financial situation
Funded By: Ministry for Pacific Peoples
Duration: 10-week programme + 12 months of pastoral care
Delivery Mode: Online and in-person (nationwide)
The Challenge
Pasifika communities across Aotearoa face deep-rooted barriers to financial wellbeing and homeownership. These challenges are both systemic and generational, and they continue to widen the equity gap:
Only 16.8% of Pasifika people own their own homes — far below the national average of 42.1%
Nearly 50% of Pasifika households are among the lowest 40% of income earners in the country
Around 28.7% of Pasifika children live in material hardship, more than double the national average of 12.7%.
Over 38% of Pasifika individuals live in overcrowded housing, and nearly 46% experience damp living conditions
Many Pasifika families rely on Buy Now Pay Later schemes and car finance, increasing debt and limiting savings
Financial literacy levels remain low, with Pasifika learners scoring below the national average in recent studies
These statistics paint a clear picture: traditional financial literacy programmes often fail to engage and support Pasifika learners in ways that are culturally relevant, practical, and empowering. Without targeted solutions, the cycle of financial stress and low homeownership continues — affecting not just individuals, but entire aiga (families) and communities.
Our Response
At Zeducation, we knew the solution had to be more than just spreadsheets and savings tips — it had to speak to the heart of our Pasifika communities.
That’s why we created Makatuliki: a financial literacy and homeownership pathway built on culture, connection, and confidence.
We designed the programme to honour our values, celebrate our stories, and walk alongside participants every step of the way. Makatuliki didn’t just teach budgeting — it restored hope. It gave families a reason to dream again and the tools to take action.
When COVID-19 lockdowns hit, we didn’t stop — we adapted. We moved the programme online to ensure no one was left behind. That decision meant participants across the country could stay engaged, stay supported, and stay on track toward their financial goals.
Through culturally grounded teaching, group-based learning, and 12 months of pastoral care, we empowered Pasifika learners to not only understand their finances — but to own their futures. The results speak for themselves: new homeowners, stronger financial habits, and families building legacies.
Makatuliki proved what we’ve always believed — when you invest in people, you unleash potential that transforms generations.
Impact Highlights
From 2021 to 2023, we successfully delivered 6 cohorts of the Makatuliki programme across Aotearoa, supporting 92 Pasifika individuals on their journey toward financial empowerment.
Despite the challenges of COVID-19 lockdowns, Zeducation adapted quickly—pivoting to online delivery to ensure the programme continued without disruption. This flexibility meant participants could stay engaged and supported throughout, no matter the circumstances.
The results speak for themselves:
11 participants became first-time homeowners
Over 80% improved their financial situation, including:
Growing their savings
Reducing personal debt
Establishing emergency funds
Gaining clarity around budgeting and financial planning
Many participants also reported renewed confidence and motivation to pursue long-term financial goals for themselves and their families.
Zeducation’s Role
Zeducation was responsible for the full development and delivery of the programme, including:
Designing the curriculum and culturally tailored learning experience
Managing nationwide recruitment and enrolment
Delivering the programme online and in-person
Facilitating each cohort with qualified and culturally competent trainers
Providing 12 months of pastoral care after the programme
Collecting feedback, measuring outcomes, and reporting to stakeholders
This wraparound approach ensured participants were supported every step of the way, from learning key principles to applying them in real life.
What Participants Learned
Over 10 weeks, learners developed:
Awareness of their own money mindset and habits
SMART goal-setting strategies aligned with personal values and goals
Practical budgeting tools and spending plans
Smarter ways to reduce and manage personal debt
A step-by-step understanding of the homeownership journey and available government support
Confidence in planning for retirement and long-term wealth-building
Each participant received a Certificate of Completion and a Digital Badge.
Learner Testimonials
What’s Next
Zeducation is ready to expand the reach of Makatuliki by:
Delivering through churches, community groups, and iwi providers
Offering workplace-based financial literacy sessions for employers with Pacific staff
Partnering with new funders or local authorities to scale the impact
Partner With Us
If you’re passionate about supporting Pasifika communities in achieving financial wellbeing and homeownership, Zeducation is ready to collaborate. Contact Us Today
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