Maori Party education spokesperson Te Ururoa Flavell says the tertiary changes will create a barrier for Maori and Pasifika people who want to re-enter education.
From next year, the minimum loan repayment rate's rising from 10 to 12 cents in the dollar, and allowances after four years study are being stopped.
Mr Flavell says putting a deadline on people to claim an allowance shuts off an opportunity for second chance learners.
He says family circumstances for Maori and Pasifika people are different - they take more time to look after children and families and to get money together to re-enter education.
Mr Flavell says putting a deadline on people to claim an allowance blocks opportunities for those who want to re-enter tertiary education, and dilutes their desire to move into higher education.
