Category: EIT Hawke’s Bay

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Celebrations as EIT Hawke’s Bay students graduate | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

1 day ago

There was a strong sense of celebration in Napier today as 300 EIT students marked the end of their study journey.

Two ceremonies were held at the Napier Municipal Theatre on Friday (April 11), with whānau, friends and supporters gathering to mark the occasion. In total, EIT awarded 2,241 diplomas, degrees and postgraduate qualifications to Hawke’s Bay-based learners who finished their studies last year.

The morning ceremony recognised graduates from the Centre for Veterinary Nursing, IDEAschool, Te Ūranga Waka, and the Schools of Education and Social Sciences, Primary Industries, Tourism and Hospitality, Trades and Technology, and Viticulture and Wine Science.

A graduation parade through Napier’s city centre followed, with students, staff, and supporters cheered on by the community.

In the afternoon, students from the Schools of Business, Computing, Health and Sport Science, and Nursing were celebrated.

Valedictorians Elijah Rogers and Kayla Hughes delivered heartfelt speeches reflecting on their time at EIT. Olympian Nigel Avery was the special guest speaker, and Tukituki MP Catherine Wedd was also in attendance.

EIT Interim Operations Lead Glen Harkness congratulated all those who graduated.

“It’s always a proud moment to see our students cross the stage. Graduation is the result of hard work, focus, and a real commitment to learning. Each of our graduates can feel proud of what they’ve achieved.”

He also acknowledged the role of EIT staff.

“Our lecturers and tutors are passionate about supporting student success. These ceremonies are a reflection of their dedication and the high-quality programmes we continue to offer across the board. We have no doubt that these graduates’ futures look bright.”

Graduation ceremonies were also held in March for EIT’s Tairāwhiti and Auckland students.

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EIT students help thousands of kids tackle Tough Kid challenge | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

EIT students helped bring the Mitre 10 MEGA Tough Kid challenge to life last week during two action-packed days.

The popular annual event at Mitre 10 Park Hawke’s Bay drew thousands of tamariki from across the region to take on a 23-obstacle course focused on fun, participation, and inclusion.

EIT Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science student Irina Vlasov encourages students taking part in the Mitre 10 MEGA Tough Kid challenge.

Dr Sue Scott-Chapman, a Principal Academic Staff Member in the School of Health and Sport Science and long-time event organiser, said this year’s involvement was the biggest yet.

“We had students from across the Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science; first, second and third year, as well as students from our Services Pathway, Outdoor Education, Trades Academy, and L4 Certificate in Exercise team in Maraenui. For the first time this year we had our EIT Skills for Living Programme students participating as well.”

“It’s come a long way since 2014, when we started with just a handful of students doing placements. Now it’s a major part of our calendar and a real highlight for our learners.”

Fifty EIT students volunteered each day, which Sue said was a fitting coincidence in EIT’s 50th year.

She said the event offers real-world learning that can’t be replicated in the classroom.

“They’re not just helping out. They’re learning how to engage with young people, how to motivate, and how to adapt their approach for different ages and abilities.”

For third-year Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science student Toni Palermo, the event was a highlight.

“I think probably the bonus for me is just seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces and seeing them all give it a go.”

EIT Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science student Amit Khadka volunteered at the Mitre 10 MEGA Tough Kid challenge.

Toni’s 17-year-old son, Ethan Palermo, a Trades Academy student, also volunteered.

“It was nice to see him cheering kids along. He was smiling and laughing, and it was really good.”

She said experiences like Tough Kid are valuable for everyone involved.

“I think it’s very beneficial. You’re getting kids out there that probably would never have done half of those obstacles, and I think it just pushes them out of their comfort zone.”

The course featured bouncy castles, climbing frames, slippery slides, and a finale spray-down from the fire brigade. Students helped guide participants, offered encouragement, and ensured everyone had fun, regardless of speed or ability.

“It’s not about who finishes first,” said Sue. “It’s about making sure every child feels successful. And our students walk away with just as much as they give.”

Planning is already underway for next year, and for Sue, it’s a non-negotiable on the calendar.

“It connects our students with the community, promotes physical activity, and brings joy to so many. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

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Career change leads to valedictorian honour for EIT nursing graduate | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

49 seconds ago

More than a decade after first studying at EIT Hawke’s Bay, Kayla Hughes will return to the graduation stage, this time as a Bachelor of Nursing graduate and one of two valedictorians.

Kayla will deliver her valedictory speech at one of two graduation ceremonies for EIT Hawke’s Bay at the Napier Municipal Theatre on Friday, April 11.

Being selected as valedictorian came as a pleasant surprise.

“I felt very honoured to have even been considered. You put a lot of hard work into your degree, so to be acknowledged just through a nomination was nice.”

Having originally completed a Diploma in Cookery at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale in 2013, Kayla spent several years overseas in various kitchens.

It was during her time working for a healthcare software company in the UK that she realised her passion lay in directly caring for others.

This prompted her decision to pursue nursing upon returning home in 2020.

“I’ve always been the person in my family who helps when someone’s sick,” Kayla says. “Pursuing nursing felt like the natural next step.”

At 31, Kayla found her transition back to tertiary study supported by EIT’s introductory NZ Certificate in Study and Career Preparation (Hauora) programme. Throughout her Bachelor of Nursing, Kayla found strong support networks, both among lecturers and her fellow students, crucial to her success.

“We had a very supportive cohort,” she says. “The connections we made helped us get through tough times, particularly during Cyclone Gabrielle, when studying became especially challenging.”

Now employed in the Acute Assessment Unit at Hawke’s Bay Hospital, Kayla is thriving in the fast-paced environment and says she enjoys the dynamic nature of acute care nursing.

Kayla will celebrate her achievement with family and friends at the graduation ceremony. “I’m proud to represent the Bachelor of Nursing and excited for what’s ahead,” she says.

Katie Rongonui, Assistant Head of School, School of Nursing, said: “Kayla has not only achieved academic excellence during her time in the Bachelor of Nursing, she has inspired and encouraged others in her journey to becoming a registered nurse with her positive outlook and determination”.

“Kayla’s outstanding achievements and attributes will no doubt carry her into a successful career in nursing, providing excellence in the delivery of care for patients and their whānau.”

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Valedictorian credits EIT for helping rebuild his life | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

Study at EIT gave Elijah Rogers (Te Arawa, Ngāti Whātua, and Ngāpuhi) the chance to rebuild his life.

Now, just a few years later, he’s graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (Māori) and will do so as one of two EIT Hawke’s Bay valedictorians at the Napier Municipal Theatre on Friday, April 11.

“I didn’t expect to be named valedictorian,” he says. “But it’s a reflection of how far I’ve come and the people who have helped me get here.”

Elijah Rogers (Te Arawa, Ngāti Whātua, and Ngāpuhi) will graduate as Valedictorian at one of two EIT Hawke’s Bay ceremonies in April.

He now teaches level 4 te reo Māori at EIT, having first enrolled as a student there in 2022.

Originally from the north, 36-year-old Elijah moved to Hawke’s Bay to start fresh. His wife, who was living in Whanganui at the time, sold her home so they could settle in the region and begin the next chapter of their lives.

“My wife’s support made all the difference—she gave me a solid footing to land on,” he says.

Although Elijah grew up surrounded by kapa haka and a father who taught tikanga, te reo Māori was not a language he spoke fluently as a child.

“I could understand bits of it, but I didn’t know how to speak it properly. I grew up around it, but I didn’t have the reo myself.”

Later in life, during a period of reflection and transition, he made the decision to commit to learning te reo and deepening his understanding of te ao Māori.

He began by completing a six-month level 2 certificate elsewhere.

“When I was starting to get a grasp of te reo, I actually saw the benefits, not just of the language, but of how it changed how I saw the world. That’s what grounded me.”

That self-motivation eventually led him to EIT’s Te Ūranga Waka, where he enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts (Māori) and found the structure, support, and sense of belonging he needed to continue his journey.

Elijah says he found more than just a place to study.

“Te Ūranga Waka was a great support for me. They gave me a community away from home. It felt like I’d found a new whānau.”

He now teaches level 4 te reo Māori at EIT, having first enrolled as a student there in 2022.

Alongside teaching, Elijah is also a carver. His carvings reflect his heritage and his journey, and carving remains a grounding practice in his day-to-day life.

“That was always the goal,” he says. “To keep teaching te reo and keep carving.”

He says EIT gave him the foundation to do both—work that continues to challenge and inspire him.

“I’m just grateful,” he says. “It gave me the chance to start again. Now I get to give back.”

Tash Hau, Poutuarā Assistant Head of School, Te Ūranga Waka, congratulated Elijah on his “well-deserved” appointment to valedictorian.

“We are very proud of Elijah and his achievements. This is yet another example of what is possible when dedication, self-belief and a solid work ethic fuse together. Ko ngā ara tūmanko, ko ngā ara tūmanako e!”

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EIT event brings nocturnal world of moths to light | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

1 day ago

A joint event hosted by EIT and the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council gave people a rare glimpse into the nocturnal world of moths.

The nighttime event, held at Pekapeka Wetland Regional Park in February to celebrate World Wetlands Month, highlighted the insects’ vital role in New Zealand ecosystems.

EIT Environmental Studies graduate Ryan Bauckham and Environmental Management Lecturer Dr Amelia McQueen led the event. Amelia said the evening was an eye-opener, particularly for adults who initially attended for their children’s benefit but soon became fascinated themselves.

EIT Environmental Studies graduate Ryan Bauckham shared his knowledge of moths at an event at Pekapeka Wetland Regional Park. Photo/Amelia McQueen.

“Some adults brought their kids thinking they’d be most excited, but they quickly became just as engrossed,” she said.

A highlight of the evening was Ryan’s impressive collection of pinned moths, displayed in glass cases to illustrate their diverse colours, shapes, and sizes. Even more captivating were the live moths attracted by special lights, revealing vibrant colours and intricate patterns.

Among those observed was Hygraula nitens, known as the pond moth, which lays eggs underwater and spends most of its lifecycle among aquatic plants. Another intriguing species was the flax notch maker (Ichneutica steropastis), whose larvae create distinctive V-shaped notches along harakeke leaves.

The event also explored how native New Zealand plants evolved to attract moths, their primary pollinators. Amelia said that many native plants have small, white, often fragrant flowers specifically designed to attract nocturnal insects.

“White flowers are more visible at night, and their scent draws in moths. These insects play a crucial role in pollinating native plants, supporting entire ecosystems,” she said.

Amelia says attendees described the evening as “engaging” and “fascinating,” and each received a custom-made moth badge, created by EIT’s IDEASchool.

Beyond the public event, Ryan and Amelia are conducting ongoing research studying moth diversity in remnant podocarp forests across Central Hawke’s Bay. Funded by Biodiversity Hawke’s Bay and EIT, the research aims to document local moth species and explore how habitat quality influences their populations.

Ryan has spent months conducting meticulous fieldwork, often working late nights documenting moth activity in forests such as Otaia/Lindsay’s Bush, Elsthorpe Scenic Reserve and several QEII blocks. The study is among the first in Hawke’s Bay to investigate the relationship between forest size, ecological health, and moth diversity.

“We still don’t fully know what moth species exist in these forests. This research is critical for future conservation and management efforts,” Amelia said.

Data collection will conclude by mid-April, with findings analysed throughout the year. A research paper or detailed report is expected either late this year or early next year, with results shared among stakeholders including the Department of Conservation, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, Central Hawke’s Bay District Council and landowners.

Given the event’s success, Amelia said more public sessions may be planned in the coming months.

“We’ve already had requests to do this again,” she said.

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EIT students roll out collaboration with Peter Gordon at Meatball Festival | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

EIT students took their passion for food to the next level, rolling up their sleeves—and meatballs—as they joined forces with chef Peter Gordon for the inaugural Hastings Meatball Festival.

The sold-out free Meatball Festival, part of F.A.W.C! was held in the Hastings CBD on Friday evening and featured 22 meatball offerings including a vegan ‘neatball’ and a vegetarian ‘no meat’ ball.

Peter’s much-anticipated creation included a First Light wagyu meatball with labneh, pickled red onions, kawakawa salsa verde, crispy shallots and curry leaves.

EIT Culinary students spent two days working with Peter to create 1000 meatballs, gaining firsthand insight into professional dish development, from flavour pairing to presentation.

“Working with EIT students was a fantastic experience. They were engaged, eager to learn, and brought real energy to the process. I was excited to showcase our meatballs alongside so many other great creations at the festival,” Peter said.

The collaboration was a rare opportunity for students to refine their skills under the guidance of a world-renowned chef, with many describing it as a highlight of their studies.

NZ Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) student Crystal Wallis says it was a privilege to be able to cook alongside Peter.

“I was so excited about this. I asked Peter if he could give me a word of advice as a chef, and he said to find a job that suits me in a restaurant that suits me and that I am comfortable in. I thought that was really good advice.”

Crystal completed NZ Certificate in Cookery (Level 3) back in 1999, and after focusing on her family, is now realising her childhood dream of becoming a chef. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do.”

Nikki Lloyd, Assistant Head of School of Tourism and Hospitality, highlighted the significance of the opportunity, noting that it was the first major event held in EIT’s recently refurbished culinary facilities.

“This was a major event for our students. Our NZ Certificate in Cookery (Level 4) students led the way, treating it as one of their key productions, but we also had involvement from Level 4 Baking students, Diploma in Cookery (Level 5) students and Trades Academy participants. It was an incredible learning experience,” Lloyd said.

EIT Chef Tutor Mark Caves echoed this sentiment, emphasising the impact of the collaboration.

“It was an eye-opening experience for the students. The interaction with Peter was phenomenal, and it really brought all of our hospitality courses together. It was a fantastic team-building opportunity.”

Peter was full of praise for the students’ enthusiasm and the quality of training at EIT.

“The quality of teaching here is highly respected, and it’s great to see so many young people passionate about entering the food industry. There’s a real spirit to hospitality, and EIT does an amazing job fostering that,” he said.

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EIT student’s passion for wine takes her to Italy on Bragato Exchange | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

6 minutes ago

Elise Williams love for wine science is taking her beyond the vineyards of Hawke’s Bay and into the heart of Italy, thanks to the prestigious Wine-Searcher Bragato Exchange Scholarship.

The 23-year-old is in her final year of the Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science at EIT and found out about her selection for the scholarship following an intensive application and interview process.

EIT Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine Science student Elise Williams has been awarded the prestigious Wine-Searcher Bragato Exchange Scholarship.

“It’s hard to put into words exactly what this means to me,” she says. “This will be my first time travelling overseas, so the opportunity to experience a new culture while learning about wine is incredible. I just couldn’t pass up the chance to go to Italy and be immersed in the industry there.”

Her curiosity in wine initially developed from an unexpected place—a wine tasting experience during a superyacht crewing course in Nelson.

“I quickly realised that boats weren’t for me—seasickness is no fun! But that tasting stuck with me. When I moved to Hawke’s Bay, I saw an opportunity to explore the wine industry, and I haven’t looked back since.”

Originally from Wellington, Elise moved to Hawke’s Bay with her mum after the Covid-19 pandemic. With her grandmother living in the region, she had always considered it her ‘second home’.

In 2021, she completed the NZ Certificate in Cellar Operations (Level 3) at EIT, which set the foundation for her journey into the wine industry, leading her to pursue further studies.

“I kind of fell into this industry, but once I started working my first harvest, I knew this was what I wanted to do. The work is constantly changing, and you’re always problem-solving. It’s so rewarding.”

Throughout her time at EIT, Elise says she has gained valuable hands-on experience, including working vintages in wineries and obtaining her forklift licence.

“Getting my forklift licence was really useful,” she said. “I was also lucky to work for a winery that gave me a lot of training, which not every student gets.”

Her skills were put to good use in 2023 when Cyclone Gabrielle hit the region. With winery work on hold due to the devastation, Elise stepped up as a volunteer, using her forklift licence to assist at the showgrounds, moving pallets of supplies to help those in need.

“It was something I felt needed to be done. People needed supplies, and I could do my part to help keep things moving. It was incredible to see the community come together.”

Her winemaking achievements have also been impressive. In 2023, she was awarded the Richard Vuletich Memorial Trophy and received a silver medal for her Chardonnay at the EIT Wine Show.

“That was a really special moment. Making my own wine and seeing it recognised reinforced that I was on the right path. Wine is such an incredible mix of art and science, and that’s what makes it so exciting.”

As part of the Wine-Searcher Bragato Exchange, Elise will be hosted by Padua University and welcomed by Italian wine families who have previously participated in the programme. She will gain insights into Italy’s wine industry, meet key figures in the field, and explore some of the country’s most prestigious wineries.

“I’m so excited to meet people who are passionate about wine and see how things are done in a different part of the world. I want to take in as much as I can and bring that knowledge back with me.”

Upon her return to New Zealand in August, Elise will host an Italian scholar in Hawke’s Bay before travelling to Christchurch, where they will attend New Zealand Winegrower events together.

Looking ahead, Elise envisions a future in winemaking, with aspirations of working her way up to an assistant winemaker and, eventually, a head winemaker role.

“The wine industry is so dynamic; no two days are the same. I love the problem-solving and hands-on aspects of it,” she says. “I’ll start off with more vintage experiences and hopefully work my way up to assistant winemaker and beyond.”

Reflecting on her journey so far, Elise expressed immense gratitude for the opportunities she has had.

“I’m so thankful to the people who have organised this exchange and to EIT for providing such a strong foundation. I can’t wait to take this next step. This is something I’ve wanted for a long time, and now it’s actually happening. It still feels a little unreal!”

Head of School Viticulture and Wine Science Sue Blackmore said they are excited that this exchange will continue to provide EIT graduates with a unique life changing opportunity.

“The exchange enables the building of invaluable connections, as well as the opportunity to be hosted by the University of Padua and by ex-exchange scholars in different parts of Italy. We are extremely thankful to our long-term sponsors and the main sponsor, Wine-Searcher, who are ensuring the longevity of this valuable exchange that commemorates its founder, Kevyn Moore.”

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EIT celebrates 50 years of providing quality tertiary education and skills training to Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

29 seconds ago

EIT has educated generations of locals and this year will celebrate 50 years of providing quality tertiary education and skills training to Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti.

Originally planned to be a university, what arose from a gifted piece of land in Taradale was the Hawke’s Bay Community College. When it opened its doors for vocational and community education in 1975, not many would have anticipated that it would become EIT.

At the heart of it all was a bequest of a piece of land close to the Ōtatara Pa site, south of Taradale, by Margaret Hetley.

Hilda Margaret Hetley (1889-75) had graduated with a Master of Arts from Cambridge University and she wanted a tertiary institution for Hawke’s Bay.  She made her bequest for a campus to honour her late husband, Frederic St Arnaud Hetley, and also to mark the provincial centennial of Hawke’s Bay in 1958.

It was the start of academic excellence that would expand to include multiple degree programmes – the Bachelor of Nursing being the first in 1996. That same year the name changed to Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT). EIT consolidated itself as the preeminent educational provider on the East Coast when it merged with Tairāwhiti Polytechnic in Gisborne in 2011.

There have been many developments during the fifty years, including the establishment of the Ōtatara Children’s Centre in 1977; the first computers being set up in 1985; nursing training starting in 1981; Māori studies being launched at Te Manga Māori, now better known as the much-extended Te Ūranga Waka, in 1989; the Twist Library opening in 1993; and by the late 1990s new bachelor degrees were started including business studies, computing systems, Māori studies, visual arts and design, viticulture and wine science.

Study options continued to expand into the early 2000s, with the addition of bachelor degrees for sport, & exercise, applied social sciences, a master’s degree in nursing, an honours’ degree for Māori studies and a diploma in early childhood teaching. Margaret Hetley’s vision for a regional institution that conferred degrees and postgraduate qualifications was being realised.

While Margaret Hetley’s vision was being fulfilled, EIT’s foundation has always been in vocational and community education. From humble beginnings as the Hawkes Bay Community College, EIT has become a leader in certificate and diploma level training across a wide range or trades and practical vocations with more than 5500 learners enrolled on these qualifications in 2024

EIT continues a strong tradition of community education.  EIT is one of the biggest providers nationally of Adult Community Education (ACE) programmes and offers a significant amount of foundation education, particularly in Te Reo Maori which they deliver in scores of locations right across Hawkes Bay and Tairāwhiti including in the evening and on weekends.

New Zealand’s largest regionally-based Trades Academy opened on the Hawke’s Bay campus in 2012. Now also offered at the Tairāwhiti campus, the Trades Academy works with secondary schools to provide year-long trades programmes to help students achieve NCEA Level 2 and prepare for work or higher-level study.

EIT has adopted an internationalisation strategy since 1992 when they started welcoming international students to the Hawke’s Bay Campus. As part of EIT’s growth as an institution and to support further expansion of our international activities, particularly in the provision of postgraduate programmes, EIT established a Graduate School Auckland Campus in 2015. 

International students are attracted by EIT’s quality teaching and learning, applied professional programmes, links with industry and the creation of opportunities for academic and personal growth. Each year, EIT typically enrols international students from over 50 different countries benefitting our campuses and wider communities. 

Having developed its research capabilities over a number of years, EIT supports its communities in undertaking applied research projects for local industries and community organisations.

EIT has thrived over the last 50 years, now offering more than 160 postgraduate, degree, diploma and certificate-level programmes. Taking Margaret Hetley’s dream for the region beyond what she could have imagined.

EIT’s interim Director of Operations Glen Harkness says that EIT has become an integral part of the community.

“It is a privilege to have been able to play a part in continuing to bring Margaret Hetley’s dream to life for 50 years. EIT’s strength lies not only in its achievements, staff and students but also through the support of the communities of the Hawke’s Bay, Tairāwhiti and our international partners.

“We pride ourselves on the connections we have created and built over the last 50 years with local businesses, community groups and local Iwi and as we look to the future, we will strive to continue to bring academic and vocational excellence to the region.” 

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EIT Tutors teach invaluable skills to remote islands of Tokelau | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

2 minutes ago

Two EIT tutors have spent six weeks in Tokelau, teaching essential plumbing and automotive maintenance skills to support the remote island community. 

The program, delivered by Stu Hannam and Chris Olsen last year, focused on equipping locals with the practical knowledge needed to maintain vital infrastructure and improve their quality of life.

Over the course of their stay, the tutors taught 45 students, repaired 60 outboard motors, 15 cars, 5 motorbikes, 5 chainsaws, generators, and a jackhammer. They also worked on plumbing repairs for community buildings, the local hospital, houses, schools, and a hotel. 

EIT Automotive Tutor Stu Hannam with students in Tokelau.

The journey to Tokelau was an adventure in itself. After flying from New Zealand to Samoa on August 31, the pair boarded Mataliki, Tokelau’s ferry, for a 46-hour voyage across rough seas.

They arrived at the atoll of Atafu on September 6, where they spent 16 days teaching, before moving to Nukunonu, the largest atoll, for another 18 days. 

For Hannam, an automotive tutor, the trip was about addressing a critical need. “The people didn’t really know how to fix things themselves,” he said.

“They fixed things only when they broke. I showed them how to service their outboards to make them safe at sea. It’s crucial because they rely on fishing for food and survival.” 

Olsen, a plumbing tutor, emphasised the importance of water management in the islands.

“Water is their lifeline. They don’t have natural groundwater, so everything is collected in tanks,” he explained. “We taught them how to fix leaks and install proper spouting to catch rainwater. A lot of the work involved tweaking their existing knowledge and showing them how to do things properly.” 

The impact of their training extended beyond individual skills. On Nukunonu, the Taupulea (Council of Elders) decided to establish a dedicated plumbing team from Olsen’s graduates.

“It was awesome to see the community so happy about the knowledge their people gained.” 

The tutors fully immersed themselves in Tokelauan culture, participating in activities such as church services, a dance competition, and cricket matches.

“The singing in church was amazing,” Olsen recalled. “And, yes, we got roped into dancing, which was a lot of fun.” 

For both tutors, the experience was profoundly rewarding.

“It really reinforced how we, as educators, can make a huge difference in remote communities,” Olsen said.

Hannam agreed, noting how appreciative the Tokelauan people were. “They’ve told me their motors are running better than ever, and they feel safer going out to fish.” 

Their time on Nukunonu concluded with a ceremony attended by the Ulu-o-Tokelau (Head of Government), Alapati Tavite, who praised the success of the program. 

While no official plans to return have been confirmed, both tutors hope this is just the beginning.

“There’s still a third atoll we didn’t get to because of time constraints,” Olsen said. “If given the chance, we’d love to continue this work.” 

Andrew McCrory, Assistant Head School of Trades and Technology, said teaching these valuable Plumbing and Automotive Skills was a huge success for EIT and the Tokelauan Communities. 

“Student engagement and embracing the community is important in these situations, and full credit must go to Chris and Stu for taking time away from their families to make this happen. They have both laid the groundwork for more tertiary education in Tokelau.”

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Living on orchard and enjoying outdoors fostered love for environment in EIT student | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

37 seconds ago

Growing up on a Twyford orchard and living an outdoor life fostered a love for the environment which led Jordyn Campbell to study Environmental Management at EIT.

This has proved to be a good move with Jordyn, who finished the NZ Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 6) last year, currently doing conservation surveying and monitoring work. She is working for SPS Biota| Biosecurity & Environmental Services, collecting data about the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug and Spongy Moth – both serious pests and risks to NZ fruit and vegetable industries. This project started in October and runs until April 2025.

Jordyn, 20, attended Iona College in Havelock North and won a Year 13 scholarship in 2022 to study at EIT. A Year 13 Scholarship, which is offered annually by EIT, covers one year of tuition fees. The Scholarship supports school leavers across the Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti regions to study any one of EIT’s degrees or selected level 5 diploma programmes that lead into a degree by providing one year FREE study.

Jordyn Campbell completed the NZ Diploma in Environmental Management (Level 6) at EIT last year and is looking forward to completing her Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management).

Jordyn entered the Environmental Management programme in 2023, completing her level 5 NZ Diploma in Environmental Management, and has loved every moment.

“I live on an orchard, too, so I decided to study more about the environment around me, because I’ve been growing up in a rural area.”
She says choosing EIT to study at was an easy decision, especially when she won the Year 13 scholarship.

“It was close to home and easier to study there, especially since I liked the sound of the programme. The scholarship also helped me make the decision.”

Jordyn says that her new job is working on behalf of the Ministry for Primary Industries and involves searching for evasive species of Spongy Moths and Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs in Napier, Hastings and Havelock North.

“We have an app called Field Maps and it has all the locations on it, which are indicated by dots on the map. You complete forms depending on if you get a sample or you’re just doing a trap clearance, and then it will change the colour of the dots on the map. There are 63 traps for the Spongy Moth and six traps for the Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs across Hawke’s Bay.”

This year Jordyn will be completing her final year of study to achieve the Bachelor of Applied Science (Biodiversity Management). As for the future, Jordyn is leaning towards working in biosecurity, but she does not rule out studying further.

She says that wherever she winds up, she will not forget what she has learned from EIT. She has no hesitation in recommending the institute to others.

“I like EIT because you get to know everyone on a very personal level, including the lecturers. You are not just a number to them, you’re an actual person and you get one-on-one help from them.”

Environmental Management Lecturer Dr Glen Robertshaw says: “I think this is a fantastic opportunity for Jordyn, who I know really enjoyed our level 6 Biosecurity course”.

“It is also a real validation of the value of our programme and demonstrates that what we are teaching can lead to employment locally. It’s great to think that one of our students is helping to protect the local horticulture industry from invasive species that could potentially devastate it.”