Pacific at Waikato

The University of Waikato offers a variety of programs and resources designed to help Pacific students thrive, including opportunities to learn about Pacific cultures and languages, as well as pathways to academic and professional success.

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Our team administers a growing number of initiatives designed to build, illuminate and smooth pathways of success.

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Knowledge, teaching and learning have a long and rich heritage amongst the peoples of the Pacific. At Waikato, there are many opportunities to learn more about Pacific people, cultures, languages, histories, and futures. 

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Pacific cultures and languages are precious taonga that create community and belonging. We celebrate various independence days at Waikato.

Kia orāna, mālō e lelei, tālofa lava, fakaalofa lahi atu, ni sa bula vinaka, taloha ni, halo olgeta, ia orana, ko na mauri, wa wa wa, aloha mai, and warm Pacific greetings!

 

The University of Waikato is a place where Pacific learners have thrived for generations. When you study at Waikato, you follow in the footsteps of Pacific leaders, engineers, nurses, lawyers, educators, scientists, technologists, artists, and innovators. 

You can also write your own story, gain an education, and earn a qualification that will open doors and opportunities. Like the voyaging peoples of the past, you may go to new places and challenge the horizon.

Our programmes, activities and events are designed to help you imua — that is, to go forward and lead from the front. And our team and wider aiga are here to help you succeed.

Dr Keakaokawai (Keaka) Varner Hemi
Assistant Vice-Chancellor Pacific

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Pacific Strategic Plan

The Pacific Strategic Plan was developed through consultation with staff, students, committees and other stakeholders and was adopted by Council in June 2021. The Plan is the product of many different conversations over years — and over decades.

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We know that a helping hand goes a long way in turning a smart brain into a great mind and we offer several scholarships for new Pacific students.

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The Conch

The Conch is our dedicated Pacific student space, located on level zero of the Student Centre. It's a great place to recharge and relax between classes.

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We have a thriving research ecosystem that nurtures Pacific research, researchers and research excellence and a new Lo'i Hub under development.

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Meet the Pacific at Waikato team that provides strategic leadership, direction, programs, advice, and resources designed to help Pacific learners achieve success.

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The University is home to 12 Pacific student associations. Whether you are looking for a place to grow your leadership, learn about Pacific culture and language, to find others studying in your field or to make friends — we have an association for you.

One student's Pacific at Waikato experience

What's it like being a Pacific student at the University of Waikato? Hear Wiliame Daveta’s story. Then catch up with other great Pacific at Waikato events and celebrations like Language Weeks on our playlist.

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Dau ni Talitali | Pacific Engagement Manager

Sianiti Nakabea Bulisala
Contact Sia or pacificsupport@waikato.ac.nz to learn about our programmes.

Pacific at Waikato on social media