Building Confidence. Creating Futures. Preparing Rangatahi for Life.

Native Tech is a digital and creative tech private training provider based in Rotorua.  We empower rangatahi, young people to thrive, not just in tech, but in any career they choose.

Through real-world projects, hands-on training, and deep support, we help young people build the skills, confidence, and clarity to shape their own futures.

Native Tech is the education arm of the award-winning non-profit, Digital Natives Academy (DNA) and has been designated as a Category 2 provider. Native Tech draws on it’s founders’ 2 decades of experience working in the tech industry and a decade working alongside young people.

Our model blends bold creative thinking with tech, creativity, business thinking, and personal development, creating a space where young people can reconnect, rebuild, and succeed.

Illuminating Pathways

  • NZQA-accredited training at Levels 1–3 with clear progression pathways
  • Core skill development in communication, collaboration, problem-solving, self-leadership, and adaptability
  • Real-world, paid work experience through print-on-demand, AI media production, and event projects
  • Wellbeing and pastoral support, including 1:1 check-ins and onsite counselling
  • Job readiness support (CVs, IRD, ID), financial literacy
  • A safe, inclusive space for rangatahi, including those who are LGBTQ+, neurodiverse, or recovering from stress and anxiety.

We know it takes more than a qualification to succeed. That’s why we focus on building capability and confidence, not just teaching content. Whether our graduates go into tech, trades, business, or the creative industries, they leave with the tools and mindset to thrive.

At Native Tech, rangatahi learn how to:

  • Work well with others
  • Communicate clearly
  • Solve problems creatively
  • Stay accountable
  • Navigate challenges with confidence
  • Back themselves

These aren’t just tech skills, they’re life skills.

  • 92% of rangatahi transition into employment, education, or training
  • 91.7% graduation rate at Level 2
  • 94.4% of our Māori learners complete Level 1
  • 92.3% of our Māori learners complete Level 2
  • 88.24% programme completion rate (across 3 levels)
  • 80.25% average attendance, well above national averages
  • Achieved NZQA Category 2 Provider status

At Native Tech, we don’t just teach skills, we help young people rediscover their potential, gain real-world experience, and build the future on their own terms. Whether it’s tech, trades, business, or beyond, we prepare them for anything.

20 Years of Experience in Industry & Innovative Programme Delivery

2002

Native Tech Founders launched the first ever online portal for Māori focused and indigenous centred news and information, helped launch Google Māori and developed the first ever Māori News app for iOS.

2014

Digital Natives Academy Charitable Trust established in 2014 was the first ever academy to provide free digital & creative tech programmes to tamariki and rangatahi Māori wanting to explore the future of work.

2022

Native Tech launched with a focus on providing a foundation programme for rangatahi wanting to become creators, innovators and developers. Assessed by NZQA as a Category 2 Tertiary Education Provider (TEO) in 2025.