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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 to host international Work-Integrated Learning conference | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

1 minute ago

EIT is set to join Work-Integrated Learning New Zealand (WILNZ) in hosting the annual Work-Integrated Learning International Conference, bringing together educators, researchers, and industry leaders from across Aotearoa and beyond.

To be held on April 15 and 16 at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale, the two-day event will explore the theme Transformative Work-Integrated Learning: Preparing for a Changing Future.

The annual Work-Integrated Learning International Conference will be held at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale next week. Pictured is Dr. Ondene van Dulm, EIT’s Executive Director for Student & Academic Services and Vice President of WILNZ.

More than 50 papers will be presented, covering topics from generative AI to community-based projects, with contributions across a wide range of disciplines including architecture, construction, social work, and criminal justice.

Dr. Ondene van Dulm, EIT’s Executive Director for Student & Academic Services and Vice President of WILNZ, says the conference reflects EIT’s strong focus on applied learning.

“Work-integrated learning is deeply embedded in our programmes—from nursing and teaching practicums to automotive and carpentry workshops, to on-site services in hairdressing and beauty therapy,” Ondene says. “These real-world learning experiences help prepare students for the fast-changing world of work and lead to better employment outcomes.”

The conference features roundtable discussions and presentations that reflect a wide range of good practice and research, bringing together both the university and vocational education sectors. Sessions focus, among other things, on enhancing the student experience, supporting effective industry partnerships, and exploring innovative approaches to learning and assessment.

Keynote speakers include EIT graduate and tutor Levi Armstrong (Ngāti Kahungunu) and Australian scholar Dr. Bonnie Dean, a leading figure in the global work-integrated learning community.

Ondene says the event is a timely opportunity to showcase EIT’s commitment to practical, community-led, and future-focused learning.

“It’s also a chance to highlight not only our rebuilt campus post-cyclone in the year we celebrate EIT’s 50th anniversary, but also our long-standing strength in vocational and applied education and training,” she says.

“Work-integrated learning bridges the space between students, industry, and education providers—something that’s more vital than ever as we prepare learners for jobs that may not even exist yet.”

Although based in New Zealand, WILNZ is part of a global network of similar organisations, with strong connections to Australia, Canada, and Europe. The conference fosters conversations informed by international perspectives and grounded in the needs of today’s graduates.

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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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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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Long-serving staff members celebrate four decades in EIT’s 50th year | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

28 seconds ago

For more than 40 years, Mandy Pentecost and Gail Maxey have been part of the fabric of EIT, witnessing its evolution from a community college to a leading educational institution as it now celebrates its 50th anniversary.

Gail and Mandy started their careers at EIT just months apart in 1984, when the institution was still known as Hawke’s Bay Community College.

Gail, who originally joined to teach anatomy and physiology in the nursing programme, remembers how radical it was to shift nursing education from hospitals to the classroom. “It was a huge change at the time,” she recalls. “We didn’t realise then how significant that shift was.” Over the years, she has taught across multiple disciplines, including beauty therapy, sports science, and foundation programmes, always centering around her passion for anatomy and physiology.

Gail Maxey and Mandy Pentecost have been teaching at EIT for more than 40 years.

Mandy, on the other hand, came to EIT with a background in community education. While she had originally interviewed for one role, those hiring her decided to create a position for her with a community development focus. “It was a one-year role that kept getting renewed,” she laughs. She helped shape the social services and counselling programmes, eventually moving into leadership positions, including Assistant Head and Acting Head of the School of Education and Social Sciences.

Throughout their careers, both Gail and Mandy have experienced the evolution of EIT, from its modest beginnings with just a few buildings to the large institute it is today. Gail recalls how fields which were once used for soccer and rugby have been replaced by modern teaching facilities. “I’ve worked in nearly every building on this campus,” she says. “And now, after 41 years, I’ve come full circle back to the one I started in.”

Mandy appreciates how EIT continues to provide education opportunities for students in Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti. “The way we support students now is different,” she says. “EIT has always had a strong regional focus, ensuring people don’t have to leave Hawke’s Bay or Tairāwhiti to access quality education. That’s something I’ve always believed in.”

Despite their long tenures, neither Gail nor Mandy are in a rush to leave. “I love being in the classroom,” Gail says. “I love working with students who are figuring out their paths and proving to them that they can achieve more than they thought possible.”

Mandy shares a similar sentiment. “I never expected to stay this long,” she admits. “But EIT’s values align with mine. I love seeing students I taught 20 years ago succeed in their careers. That’s what makes it all worth it.”

As EIT celebrates 50 years, Gail and Mandy recognise the milestone but view it as just one chapter in the institution’s journey. Reflecting on recent years, Gail acknowledges the challenges posed by COVID-19, natural disasters, and organisational changes. “You couldn’t walk away in the middle of all that,” she says.

For Mandy, stepping back from leadership to focus on postgraduate teaching is her way of giving back. “Teaching is why I started in education. It’s what I still love to do.”

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EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) graduates secure roles at partner school | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) graduates Isaac Winterson (second left) and Becca Williams with Havelock North Primary School Principal Nick Reed (right) and Deputy Principal Greg Bain (left).

EIT’s partnership with local schools continues to thrive, with two Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) graduates the latest to secure jobs at Havelock North Primary School.

Becca Williams and Isaac Winterson finished the programme, renowned for its practical, community-focused approach, at the end of the semester, having completed placements at Havelock North Primary during their three years.

Isaac is excited to begin his career teaching Year 4 students. Reflecting on his time at EIT, he credited the programme’s practical focus for preparing him for the realities of teaching. 

“The practical experience was invaluable. Being in classrooms, working alongside incredible teachers, and applying what I learnt built my confidence over the three years,” Isaac said. “I’m stoked to start this new chapter.” 

Isaac also expressed gratitude for the supportive environment at EIT, where lecturers provided personalised guidance. 

For Becca, joining the staff at Havelock North Primary is a homecoming. A former student at the school, she completed her final practicum in a Year 3 classroom, spending two days a week on-site throughout her final year.

“It feels so special to return to the school I attended as a child,” Becca shared. “The connections I’ve made with staff and students during my practicum gave me insight into the school’s culture and prepared me for this opportunity. It’s like a year-long job interview.” 

Becca credits EIT’s focus on real-world experience and the close relationships with lecturers for her success.

“The support was incredible. Unlike larger universities, where you might not even know your lecturer’s name, at EIT, you can contact them anytime,” she said. 

Principal Nick Reed and Deputy Principal Greg Bain have long been advocates of EIT’s Bachelor of Teaching (Primary), commending its hands-on approach and the positive impact it has on teacher preparedness.

The partnership, which dates back to the programme’s inception more than a decade ago, sees candidate teachers spend 40 per cent of their training in classrooms around the region, giving schools a unique opportunity to mentor and assess future educators.

They congratulated Becca and Isaac, and said they ticked a lot of boxes.

“We’re lucky to have them because there were a number of other schools who were keen to sign them up as well. So, we were fortunate to get in nice and early with the interview process and secure their services,” Nick said.

EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) graduates Isaac Winterson (second left) and Becca Williams with Havelock North Primary School Principal Nick Reed (right) and Deputy Principal Greg Bain (left).

Greg said both Becca and Isaac were “really successful in being able to build relationships with the staff and kids”.

“We want people who are going to go the extra mile for the kids,” Nick added.

Greg described the partnership with EIT as mutually beneficial, allowing the school to evaluate top talent throughout the year.

“We get a really good look at the candidates coming through, which is really positive. I tell every candidate teacher that this is basically your interview for the whole year you’re here, so make the most of it,” he said.

Nick added: “They’re well prepared and providing that they’ve had positive postings, which in most cases they have, they’re ready to make a difference from the get-go.”

Kirsty Jones, EIT Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) Programme Co-ordinator, says: “It is always so rewarding to see graduates winning jobs in the partner schools where they practiced the craft of teaching, it is a fabulous endorsement of the quality of EIT’s BTP programme.”

“This year the graduates were snapped up by local schools with most securing positions before they had even finished their final course work. They will all start teaching in 2025.”

“Many of our past graduates have been appointed as senior leaders and mentor teachers for these beginning teachers too. I feel so proud of them and seeing them grow over the years and become leaders in the profession is heart-warming.”

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EIT’s foundation skills, and sport courses pave new pathways for rangatahi | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

3 minutes ago

Students taking part in EIT’s Level 3 Sport, Recreation and Exercise at the Maraenui Learning Centre have had a successful year.

EIT’s Foundation Skills and Sport, Recreation and Exercise courses are creating meaningful opportunities for rangatahi in Hawke’s Bay, helping them reconnect with education and discover their potential.

The courses—Level 2 Foundation Skills (Exercise and Wellbeing), Level 3 Sport, Recreation and Exercise, and Level 4 Exercise—operate out of EIT’s Maraenui Learning Centre and have become a hub of growth and transformation.

Delivered in partnership with EIT graduate and lecturer Levi Armstrong’s Meki Foundation, the programmes focus on holistic education, blending physical activity, personal development, and strong pastoral care to ensure students thrive.

“These are students who left school early and thought education wasn’t for them,” said Sport and Exercise Lecturer Coven Ratima (Ngāti Kahungunu), an EIT graduate who now tutors the same course he once completed. “But once they step into this space, they see what’s possible. It’s fun, it’s engaging, and it’s designed to build their confidence and skills.”

Hope Truman, 17, is one of those students. After leaving school at 16, she was hesitant to join the programme, even with encouragement from her mum. “At first, I didn’t want to do it. I told her, ‘I’m not going,’ but then she said she’d come with me because I didn’t want to go by myself,” Hope shared. Her mum joined her on the first day, sitting alongside her in the classroom.

That initial support was all Hope needed to embrace the programme. “After the first day, I wanted to keep coming because everyone was just so welcoming,” she said. “Even though it was their first time meeting me, they were like, ‘you’re our daughter now,’ so I thought, okay, I’m coming.”

Now thriving in the Level 3 course, Hope plans to continue her studies in 2025. She’s not alone—100 per cent of this year’s Level 3 students in Maraenui have enrolled in Level 4 for next year.

Students take part in diverse activities, from planning events to designing fitness programmes, all while developing critical skills like teamwork, time management, and leadership. Highlights of 2024 included the “Longest Day” fitness challenge and a decathlon sports day in November, which brought students from across the region together to celebrate their achievements.

This year, the courses also expanded into Gisborne for the first time, marking a significant milestone. Record numbers of students are now preparing to continue their studies in 2025, building on their successes at Level 2 and Level 3 to progress into higher qualifications.

Next year, the level 2 and 3 courses will be offered in Maraenui, Tairāwhiti, Central Hawke’s Bay and Wairoa.

Levi (Ngāti Kahungunu) said having the courses in the community breaks down barriers.

“In places like Maraenui, we’re creating safe, supportive spaces where whānau feel welcome and students can focus on their education.”

He also highlighted the importance of addressing challenges outside the classroom. “We’re removing barriers like transport and food insecurity so students can concentrate on their learning. It’s about creating a space where education feels possible and exciting.”

Coven echoed the sentiment, saying, “The growth has been phenomenal. It’s not just about education; it’s about giving them the tools to build better lives for themselves and their whānau. Seeing them succeed is the ultimate reward.”

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Final 2024 EIT public lecture explores business and climate change | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

2 minutes ago

Associate Professor Pii-Tuulia Nikula presented the final public lecture in a series organised by EIT’s Research and Innovation Centre (RIC).

EIT’s final public lecture of the year concluded with a thought-provoking session by Associate Professor Pii-Tuulia Nikula who shared her journey exploring the intricate relationship between climate change and business.

The lecture, titled Turning Up the Heat: Businesses and Climate Change, was the final in the series: ‘Reconnecting Through Research’, at MTG Hawke’s Bay recently, organised by EIT’s Research and Innovation Centre (RIC).

Central to her presentation was the critical question: Are businesses exacerbating the climate crisis, or are they helping to solve it by taking ambitious action?

This question set the stage for a discussion on the dual role businesses play in either contributing to or mitigating climate change.

She examined both the global and local trends shaping this issue, highlighting how some industries and organisations are stepping up to address environmental concerns, while others are still lagging behind.

A key focus of the lecture was the analysis of climate disclosures, science-based decarbonisation targets, and the barriers businesses face in taking action.

Pii-Tuulia discussed the rising importance of climate-related financial disclosures and the need for businesses to adopt measurable climate targets. The lecture also addressed the challenges businesses face, including the financial risks of climate change and the complexity of integrating sustainability into their existing business models.

“Climate change is not just an environmental issue, it’s a business issue,” she said. “To ensure long-term sustainability, companies need to rethink their business models to make sure that they are future-proofed”.

She explored the difference between symbolic and substantive engagement. While some businesses make claims about their commitment to sustainability, Pii-Tuulia pointed out that these symbolic commitments need to be followed by tangible actions that reduce organisational carbon footprints.

She discussed the critical role of businesses in shaping broader climate action, not just within their own operations, but also in their supply chains and external collaborations.

She also stressed that business leaders and policymakers must collaborate closely to create effective solutions and policies that drive real, systemic change.