About Us
Matamoe Innovation Hub is dedicated to empowering rangatahi with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s digital world. Headquartered on the Miramar Peninsula, our mission is to create a space where young people from all backgrounds can explore their passion for digital technology in a hands-on, fun, and engaging way.
Matamoe draws its name and inspiration from the rich history of the land. Early Māori inhabitants of the Miramar Peninsula relied on the Kaiwaka stream for sustenance, with Eels of the Matamoe and Haumate species being introduced into Rotokura. The land was rich with resources, and it is in this same spirit of abundance and sharing that Matamoe Hub thrives today. Just as the early Māori communities flourished in the waters of Miramar, we aim to nurture and grow the potential of young minds in the waters of digital creativity and technology.
Te Puna Ora O Ngā Matamoe (Matamoe Community Hub) is more than just a learning space. It’s a community where students with an interest in digital creative and technology fields can come together to collaborate, innovate, and grow. We provide access to the facilities, equipment, and experienced tutors that students need to bring their ideas to life.
Why we do what we do
“By joining the Matamoe Club I find that my problem solving skills have gotten better and I really enjoy coming every week. The teachers are great and kind. Everyone can learn it.” – Rebecca, tech all rounder (Year 8)
We believe that everyone, no matter their background, needs someone to support them and help build their confidence. Tech can be intimidating, especially when it feels like you’re stepping into something new or unfamiliar. At Matamoe, we know that with the right inspiration, encouragement, and support, every student has the potential to understand and succeed in technology.
We’re here to show kids that they can get it. It’s not about being a tech expert from the start—it’s about providing a space where they can explore, make mistakes, learn, and grow.
With our hands-on, engaging approach to STEM, we make sure that every child feels confident in their abilities and inspired to take on new challenges. By showing them how tech can be fun and connected to things they already love, we help them see that they belong in the world of digital innovation.
Our Ethos
“Learning to code isn’t hard, you just need to stick with it a bit. That’s why the most important thing is starting with a project you’re excited about.” – Nathan Braun – Learning to Code with Basketball.
We believe learning should be fun, interactive, and relevant to what the kids care about. Our focus is on getting them excited and engaged, because when they’re interested, they’ll stick with it—and that’s when they start to shine.
At Matamoe, we believe in getting kids hands-on with tech. It’s not just about tapping away on devices—we use hand-ons tech like robotics, micro-bits, motion capture, VR, and 3D printing to give kids the chance to learn by doing and creating.
Tech is a tool for exploration, creativity, and expression, and we make sure every child has the opportunity to experience that. Tech is moving fast and it’s important that everyone can learn how to leverage these technologies to their advantage. Our rangatahi are going to be AI natives – we want to teach them to understand how the technology works and how it can be improved to ensure the betterment of our communities.
In memory of Sheree Bennett
At the beginning of 2024, Matamoe Community Hub lost its visionary founder, Sheree Bennett. Sheree’s passion for empowering rangatahi with digital skills and her dedication to creating positive change in the community laid the foundation for everything Matamoe stands for. Her vision continues to guide us as we carry out her mission, and her spirit remains at the heart of everything we do.
Sheree believed deeply in the power of community, creativity, and learning. She left behind a legacy that will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders, creators, and innovators at Matamoe.