The government says its committed to growing tikanga-based development schemes for young Maori.

Youth Minister Nikki Kaye has announced a joint partnership with Ngai Tahu to invest $100,000 into seven initiatives for around 250 rangatahi living in rural and isolated areas of the South Island.

The partnership is the first under the youth ministry's Partnership Fund.

Ms Kaye said there are dual benefits for the rangatahi who take part in the programmes.

"It covers not only growing rangatahi leadership and mentoring and volunteering, it also covers everything from coding clubs to outdoor activities," she said.

She said tikanga-focused development programmes play an important role.

Ms Kaye said rangatahi will be "learning about their cultural history", and using Te Reo to encourage and motivate each other.