This article outlines the development of a leadership programme for senior students involved in co-leading a Year 9 cross-curricula "Festival of Learning" known as Hui Taurima. The focus is on the Maori student leaders' perspectives of a place-responsive approach to developing leadership that drew on the expertise of school staff, mana whenua, community members, and located that learning in places of significance. Students valued the centring of culture and place as integral to their development as leaders and they appreciated the authenticity of a place-responsive approach to learning. This article has relevance for educators looking to build student leader capability within their school community.