
BYOD Mana College
January 28, 2025
At Mana we don’t mind what type of Chromebook or Laptop you purchase. However, please make sure it has sufficient battery life to last the day so that you are not required to plug in during lessons.
The following is a list of options and potential support agencies for getting a device:
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Te Mana o Kupe Trust – a local trust that provides very affordable devices for as little as $4.20 per week to students living in the Porirua area – tmok.org.nz. Forms are available from reception at Mana College and we have a number of staff who can help you fill these out. Email janinel@mana.school.nz or pop into reception and one of our office staff will help you.
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Otaki and Porirua Trust Board scholarship – This secondary scholarship is for all College students who whakapapa to Ngāti Raukawa ki te tonga, Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Te Ati awa ki whakarongotai. https://maorieducation.org.nz/2024-sec-otaki-porirua-trusts-board/
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Sources of funding for ākonga Māori through Whānau Ora (Whānau Direct) https://www.ngatitoa.iwi.nz/social-services
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First-generation refugee children of school age – free device entitlement
https://www.redcross.org.nz/about-us/what-we-do/in-new-zealand/supporting-refugees/ -
Ministry of Education Learning Support criteria for students who may be eligible. https://www.education.govt.nz/school/student-support/special-education/assistive-technology/applying-for-assistive-technology/
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Work and Income NZ (WINZ) can help families with school costs. These include laptops or Chromebooks. Get in touch with them and check on eligibility.
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Local retailers – Chromebooks and Laptops are sold locally by many of the big brands such as Wharehouse Stationary, Noel Lemming, and Harvey Norman. Look out for deals and avoid the extra upgrades that they try to sell you. Remember to ask exactly what their warranties cover.
Other Subsidies available
There are three categories of subsidies for chromebooks. A family may be entitled to more than one of the subsidies.
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For whānau who are purchasing a chromebook for a second child or to replace a device that was purchased three or more years ago. ($100 subsidy)
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For whānau who are purchasing a third device (that is, there are three children who require a device). The third device costs 50% of the price.
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For students who meet the criteria for for learning support and have been declined for a MOE funded device – 50% off the cost of a device.
Next Steps
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Please use the attached application form and either drop to the school office or email to janinel@mana.school.nz
Once the Trust receives your $45 deposit and starts receiving payments they will arrange drop off of your child’s Chromebook to Mana College.