Date: Thursday, 27 November 2025
Time: Check in from 9.30AM, Event runs from 10.30AM – 3.00PM
Where: B180 – Te Puna, Mt Albert campus
T&C’s: Registration essential
Theme: Culturae: From Roots to Runway (costumes/dress-up optional)
REGISTER NOW!
To make sure we can seat and cater for everyone, you will need to register (if you haven’t already). We’ll sign you in as you enter.
Registration closes Monday, 24 November 2025.
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2025 FINALISTS OF THE UNITEC STAFF EXCELLENCE AWARDS!
We’re delighted to report that we had a record number of submissions this year, and our judges had a tough time narrowing the nominations down to a short list.
We really appreciate everyone who submitted a nomination to acknowledge their amazing colleagues – thank you for your support and participation.
Check out the full list of finalists here and read about their outstanding mahi!
Winners will be announced at our Staff Excellence Awards on Thursday, 27 November.
Theme: Culturae: From Roots to Runway
Culturae (inspired by the Latin word for culture, and the blend of culture + aura) represents both our roots and our radiance – the energy, pride, and individuality we each bring to Unitec every day.
From Roots to Runway symbolises that journey, from our heritage and traditions to how we showcase our identity, pride, and creativity in modern, expressive ways.
It’s all about celebrating the richness of who we are, where we come from, and the vibrant mix of people, stories, and styles that make us shine.
This year, the runway is yours and the theme is all about your interpretation.
You can express Culturae in a way that feels right for you:
- Traditional attire
- Modern or contemporary looks
- A fusion of different styles
- Or something completely creative and unexpected
It’s not about getting culture right or having to dress in traditional attire.
It’s about your story, your identity, your vibe, and how you choose to celebrate culture in a modern and personal way.
Think Met Gala meets cultural celebration — bold, elegant, expressive, and inclusive.
Not sure where to start? Here are a few ideas:
- Wear something inspired by your heritage — a colour, pattern, or accessory that reflects who you are.
- Draw inspiration from global art, design, music, or street fashion.
- Mix traditional and contemporary elements for a fresh, modern look.
- Go glamorous — sparkle, statement pieces, dramatic silhouettes, or confident minimalism.
- Or simply wear something that makes you feel like you — your aura, your energy, your story.
There’ll be a red-carpet entrance, paparazzi moments, and plenty of photo ops to capture the day’s glamour and joy!
And we’ve got best-dressed prizes!
- Best Dressed Individual – For the person whose look truly embodies Culturae – creativity, confidence, and flair.
- Best Dressed Team – For the group that brings unity, imagination, and wow-factor to the runway.
- Runway Royalty (Best Red-Carpet Moment) – For that unforgettable arrival, pose, or walk that steals the show!
So, gather your team, plan your look, and get ready for a day that celebrates culture, connection, and pure glamour.
Together, let’s make Culturae: From Roots to Runway a day to remember – where everyone belongs, and every story shines.
Congratulations once again to our finalists and see you there!