MIT and Unitec staff have been out in our communities working together in mahi kotahitanga to help people and the environment across Tāmaki Makaurau.
Volunteer Day events were initiated as a result of feedback from Your Whakaaro in 2024.
It is an opportunity for colleagues from across our institutions to connect and make a difference in the lives of Te Tāngata (the people) and Te Taiao (environment).
Kaimahi gathered at De Paul House on the North Shore on Friday to paint fences, make Christmas lolly bags and work in the food bank sorting items
De Paul House provides accommodation, food and support for homeless families.
“This was really worthwhile mahi. We had a great time learning about the fabulous support they provide to families who are in immediate need of a safe environment,” says Director Pathways and External Engagement Tāmaki, Julie Prentice.
“This includes helping them address the issues that have led to homelessness and enable them to successfully re-establish themselves in the community. This is a very special place where families can gain valuable support and skills to improve the future for themselves and their children.”
On Wednesday morning, kaimahi gathered in Avondale for the second event helping the Whau River Catchment Trust in their habitat restoration efforts.
The trust delivers a wide range of community-based environmental projects focusing on ecological restoration and conservation, principally in collaboration with Auckland Council and other key stakeholders within the catchment.
“Our role was to plant 160 native trees to the area to create a healthier habitat for native birds, lizards and insects as well as create a healthier habitat between the business district on Rosebank Rd and the Whau river to protect our rivers,” Organisational Development & Equity Business Partner – Tāmaki, Annaliese Hohaia says.
Trades & Services lecturer Johan van Westen says getting outdoors and planting trees was a refreshing change from painting in the workshop.
“I don’t have green fingers, but it was a great experience to do something for the community. I had a little bit of time on my hand, so I thought I better make myself useful and it was good to meet other staff from MIT as well,” Johan says.
Talent Acquisition Consultant Alison Redfern-Daly from MIT also found it rewarding.
“This experience is a first for me volunteering in my own backyard. I feel invested and I feel grateful that they gave me this time off to come here and do this. I want to come back and see how the trees are growing,” Alison says.
There are two more events remaining.
On Friday, 14 November, kaimahi will help prepare science kits for schools to improve science literacy, support education and curiosity among children in Pakuranga.
On Friday, 21 November, the Oakley Creek Restoration Project will see kaimahi working on the whenua and awa with Ngā Ringa o Te Auaunga, Friends of Oakley Creek to restore this green corridor in Waterview.
There are still a few places available for kaimahi who want to volunteer. Email Duaa Belgacem to register your interest dbelgacem@unitec.ac.nz
Awesome Mahi everyone! Such a great opportunity to get involved, I love that Unitec is making space for this!