How Teremoana Ngaiorae turned his drive to grow into real leadership skills.
When Teremoana (Tere) Ngaiorae stepped into his role as Security Support Analyst at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU), he brought with him more than just technical know-how. He had a strong desire to grow not only in his role, but as a leader.
“I’d had a management role in a previous career, but I didn’t really have the tools back then,” Tere says. “This time, I wanted to be properly prepared.”
That mindset led him to the New Zealand Certificate in Business (First Line Management) Level 4, a workplace-based programme delivered by EarnLearn Services, tailored for people ready to take the next step in leadership. Tere’s goal was clear: build the practical skills and confidence to step into a leadership role again, this time with support and structure behind him.
TAU, Auckland Council-controlled organisation, focused on economic and cultural development in Auckland, had already set up EarnLearn Services training as part of its development offering. That meant Tere could get started easily, with strong support from his employer.
“They understood that me having this qualification would help the business too,” he says. “They gave me the time I needed to get it done.”
The training itself fitted well around Tere’s job and life. “The online structure made it seamless, I could do it at home or work,” he explains.
But like many learners, Tere’s path wasn’t without hurdles. Balancing study with work deadlines, whānau responsibilities, and the impact of Covid meant things sometimes felt overwhelming. That’s when support from the EarnLearn team really kicked in.
“Honestly, Gina and Jade made my time on the course so much easier,” Tere says. “There were moments I thought I wouldn’t get the assignments done, but they were so understanding. They really helped me over the finish line.”
Now that he’s completed the programme, Tere sees how much of what he learned shows up in his day-to-day work. In his current role, he acts as second-in-charge to his manager and is responsible for analysing trends in security and visitor safety.
“So much of what I do now links back to what I learned,” he says. “Having the terminology for what I’m doing helps me explain things more clearly, and deal with situations more effectively.”
The experience has also sparked a new hunger for learning. “I’m proud of how driven I was to finish. As soon as I completed it, I wanted to do more. I’ve made it a goal to do at least one course a year now.”
His advice for others thinking about the same path? “Trust the process. And if you don’t understand something, just ask. Your trainer will help.”
For Tere, the First Line Management course wasn’t just a qualification, it was a turning point.
Ready to grow your team's leadership potential? Take the next step and email slc@earnlearn.ac.nz to get started.
Takeaway
When motivated staff are given time, guidance, and the right training, they don’t just grow, they lead. As Tere’s story shows, practical learning can unlock long-term confidence and capability in the workplace.