Kaimahi ‘staff’ joined together in karakia across Tāmaki Makaurau | Auckland to honour the coming together of MIT and Unitec as a single organisation on Monday.
About 120 kaimahi from Unitec and 80 kaimahi from MIT attended both karakia ceremonies at Te Noho Kotahitanga Marae and Ngā Kete Wānanga Marae with a further 170 kaimahi watching via the livestream.
Prayers and blessings were offered by Hare Paniora, Pae Arahi, Ioane Aleke Fa’avae, Academic Development Lecturer – Pacific Centre, Hung Ngo, Operations Manager, and Hohepa Renata, Taurahere Marae.
Executive Director, MIT and Unitec Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga reflected on the significance of the two institutions coming together as one organisation during his opening address.
He touched on Te Waka Hourua – the joining of two waka, which makes us “stronger and faster” as a combined entity serving our communities across Tāmaki Makaurau.
“Together we will create a place where our people feel seen, they are valued and they are uplifted,” explained Peseta.
“A place where Tiriti o Waitangi is lived with integrity. A place where innovation and compassion sit side-by-side, and a place where every learner can find hope, opportunity and belonging.”
“As we move forward, we honour the past, embrace the present, and we will step boldly into the future together. Let us rise into this new beginning, united in purpose, grounded in aroha (love) and committed to each other.”
Peseta then handed over to MIT where Matua Vince Hapi provided the closing remarks. Kaimahi then joined in a waiata before the final karakia.
The ceremony ended with light refreshments served in Manaaki.
