Skip Content
Sam and Courtney Manu and their tamariki

Completing the Money Management programme at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa in 2018 was the kickstart Sam and Courtney Manu needed to take control of their financial future.

The young couple were able to use the knowledge that they gained from the programme to save, get out of debt, launch a business, and start investing.

“Sam and I didn’t really have much money to our names. We probably had negatives. We saved, we budgeted, we learnt how to be financially capable,” says Courtney.

Challenges were set during the programme that the Manus would complete in their daily lives, meaning their study became like less of a chore and more of a game.

The couple launched their business, Samuel Manu Plastering, in 2019 and with the help of the business programmes at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, they managed to gain the skills needed to help grow their business.

“Emotionally, the journey of starting a business is hard. You question everything. Our lecturer at the time was really good at creating an atmosphere that was non-judgmental. We expanded and learned and have acquired the best employees,” says Courtney.

With little money saved, Courtney worked on the side to help support their whānau while their business got up and running.

Starting a business was a big risk for the Manu whānau but they recognised the opportunities that owning their own business could provide, especially for their tamariki.

“I think using the kids and my family as motivation for us to actually make it work was a big part of wanting to go and start a business,” says Sam.

The couple continue to grow their business and their financial knowledge, displaying the vision of Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, whānau transformation through education.

Courtney also continues to share budgeting tips and tricks with her followers on social media and has made connections within Māori and Pacific small business networks throughout Aotearoa.

“Having access to being able to understand wealth creation is a human right,” says Courtney. “Would I recommend Te Wānanga o Aotearoa? Yes. Absolutely.”

Find out more about business programmes.

 Back to news & events

Published On: 05 May 2023

Article By: Cassia Ngaruhe



Other Articles

  • 22 October 2025

    From the bush to a PhD - Fabian's journey of faith, family, and learning

    Fabian C Mika’s journey from the ngahere of Rūātoki to earning a PhD is a powerful story of faith, whānau, and mātauranga Māori. Discover how his passion for Ringatū, te reo Māori, and education led to academic success and a legacy of learning for future generations.

  • 20 October 2025

    Mahi toi exhibitions 2025

    From raranga to whakairo, Te Wānanga o Aotearoa toi tauira are showcasing their mahi toi in free exhibitions across Aotearoa from September to November 2025. Discover stunning works of Māori art and creativity, and celebrate the journey of tauira from certificate to degree level.

  • 15 October 2025

    Building a beauty brand through education and drive

    At just 21, Maata Morrell-Dzilic is building a thriving beauty brand with the support of business education from Te Wānanga o Aotearoa. Discover how her passion, determination, and study in small business and project management are fuelling her entrepreneurial success.

  • 08 October 2025

    From paddling to politics: a journey for reo, rights and representation

    Bevan O’Connor’s journey from waka ama to the political stage is powered by his passion for te reo Māori and Māori rights. Discover how his studies at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa and deep connection to te ao Māori are shaping his campaign for the Takitimu Māori Ward.