School data indicate a significant number of young Māori males leave school with no or very few level 1 National Certificate of Educational Achievement credits. Tertiary education providers potentially give these young men a second chance to gain basic qualifications, with the possibility of then adding to these qualifications. Ministry of Education tertiary enrolment data from 2001 to 2008 show that no type of tertiary institution stands out as being highly successful in enrolling Māori men in level 1–3 courses, although in recent years the polytechnic sector has been the most successful. Wānanga have achieved success in attracting Māori students, both numerically and as a percentage of their overall rolls, but they are attracting relatively few young Māori men in level 1–3 courses

While improving outcomes for young Māori men is partly in their own hands and those of their wider whānau, outcomes could be influenced by individual tertiary providers better targeting or tailoring their courses. However, the government and other organisations could also offer more support to young Māori men. This support could include scholarships and other financial support targeted at young low-skilled Māori men.

Key words: Māori men, tertiary education, low skills