More than a hundred Unitec kaimahi gathered at Te Noho Kotahitanga Marae on Tuesday, as Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) and Unitec Taumata (Māori Advisory Group) hosted a Karakia Whakakapī — a tikanga-based ceremony which marked both an ending and a beginning.
Karakia Whakakapī provided a space for our kaimahi to acknowledge the close of a significant fifty-year chapter for Unitec as it prepares to come together with MIT as a single regional entity from 1 January 2026.
Executive Director of Unitec and MIT, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga, acknowledged kaimahi who were unable to attend, as well as colleagues who have passed away during the year. He reflected on the resilience shown across the organisation through a period of sustained change.
“It’s been challenging — there has been a lot of change,” Peseta says. “But you’ve really held it together, supported one another and our ākonga, continuing a kaupapa that began in 1976: serving our ākonga and our communities.”
Mr Lotu-Iiga described the gathering as a moment of gratitude while recognising the enduring values that have guided Unitec’s work over decades.
Reflecting on his own journey, Peseta said that his nearly five years at Unitec had been one of the great blessings of his life, particularly through learning about Te Ao Māori and being guided by the values of Te Noho Kotahitanga.
“I’m excited about the future. Names and locations may change, but what has not changed is our kaupapa — what sits at the heart of what we do every day, which is to serve.”
Peseta also spoke of Te Waka Hourua, a unifying concept symbolised by a double-hulled vessel carrying both institutions’ values and heritage, introduced this year. “It will be developed, nurtured and grown over time. It’s something that belongs to everyone.”
Pae Arahi, Hare Paniora echoed this sentiment, describing the gathering itself as a living example of Te Waka Hourua.
“To see everyone here today — holding our own identities yet moving forward together as Waka Hourua — it can only go from strength to strength,” he said, reflecting on the legacy of leaders such as the late Sir John Turei and Lady Te Huinga.
Director of Student Success, Annette Pitovao, one of Unitec’s longest serving employees, acknowledged that the year ahead will bring both challenges and opportunities. “There will be ups and downs,” she said, “but we’ve got each other.”
Head of School, Building Construction, Paul Jeurissen reflected on his more than 30 years working across both MIT and Unitec. Quoting Shakespeare’s Henry IV, Part 2 — “Heavy is the head that wears the crown” — he spoke of the responsibility that comes with leadership and service.
“Ngākau Māhaki is a special place,” Mr Jeurissen says. “Understanding who we are, what the pou represent, and how we fit together really matters.” He reinforced a deeply held value in his teaching philosophy: “Treat every student as if they are your own sons or daughters. If we understand their gifts, we can help them succeed.”
MIT Kaumātua Vince Hapi reminded kaimahi that the moment was one to celebrate identity, journey and direction. “It’s about celebrating who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we’re heading.”
Dr Wiremu Manaia, Director – Māori Education at MIT, encouraged kaimahi to face the future with unity and courage.
“Next year will bring challenges, but don’t shy away from them,” Dr Manaia says. “We will face them together, as one whānau. Communication will be key.”
He closed by reaffirming the enduring significance of Te Noho Kotahitanga. “It is a way of thinking, feeling and behaving. Coming together under Te Waka Hourua allows us to honour our history, align our thinking, and move forward together with hope and enthusiasm.”
As the ceremony concluded, the message was clear: while structures may change, the heart of Unitec and MIT — service, connection and collective responsibility — remains strong as the journey continues.
