The awards celebrate the outstanding achievements of Māori students across the University from undergraduate students to PhD candidates, recognising their academic excellence and community contributions.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Māori, Dr Sarah-Jane Tiakiwai, says the evening is the final large event for tauira Māori for the year.
“I’d like to congratulate all our students on their success. They are positive examples of how Māori students are excelling not just academically but in leadership roles. These students are here to achieve qualifications, but they also recognise the richness of the University experience," says Dr Tiakiwai.
"They push beyond stereotypical expectations, achieving excellence across all areas of student life."
Students from the Te Āhurutanga - Māori student leadership programme.
The awards celebrate not only academic achievements but also the mana, dedication, and leadership that our tauira Māori bring to the University and their wider communities, says Dr Tiakiwai.
The event was MCed by two students who exemplify not only academic excellence but contributions to wider university life, she says: Rezin Barber and Tawera Marsh.
Rezin and Tawera are also the incoming 2025 Presidents of the Māori Law Students' Association, Te Whakahiapō.
Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Te Manu Taupori Award. This special accolade is not solely based on academic success but recognises the recipient’s overall contribution to campus life, sport, and community causes, with nominations made by peers.
“It’s about acknowledging those who go above and beyond, contributing to the vibrancy of the University in ways that reflect their values and dedication to others.”
Dr Sarah-Jane Taikiwai.
Dr Tiakiwai says many of the recipients of this year’s awards have also taken part in international exchanges and presented their work globally, gaining valuable international experience.
“The Ngā Tohu Toi Hau Awards provide a platform for celebrating the success, resilience, and leadership of Māori students at the University, embodying a can-do spirit and a dedication to both personal and collective growth.”
Full List of Winners
- Te Manu Taki
- Jade Williams
- Lee Panui
- Rerekohu Kingi
- William Mokomoko
Te Manu Tāiko
- Courtnee Woods
- Nicola Mathys
- Molly Huggan
- Paula Stanton
- Tiaki Hirini
- Kahurangi Ngatai
- Ari'i James Kawamura
- Miriama Royal
- Shawnee Cunningham
- Amber Hutton
- Atawhai McDonnell
- Rose Mayhead
He Rākau Taumatua
- Leonie Tawa
- Charlotte Gillispie
- Elijah Bock
- Iripareraukura Te Tai
- Caimi Dymon
- Ariana Stewert
Te Manu Taupori
- Akuhata Roberts
- Kerihaehae Mankelow-Ngatoro
- Te Awa Manning
- Rezin Barber
- Mona Lisa Wareka
Te Manu Huia
- Naianga Tapiata
